For Jim Traficant, it was a wild welcome home. The former Congressman returned to the Mahoning Valley just days after his release from a federal prison in Minnesota. Nearly 1200 people packed Mr. Anthony's in Boardman for a " Welcome Home Jim" party. "I love this man. And I'm so excited he's out," said Anita Fraser.
And in true-Traficant style, it was an outlandish occasion. Traficant arrived two hours into the party, with his wife Tish by his side the entire time. He spoke directly to the adoring crowd. "I plan to get right back in it," Traficant said.
His 15 minute speech touched on local issues, like the current fight the Delphi workers are facing. He also had this to say to those who put him behind bars. "They had to cheat to convict me," said Traficant.
When Traficant finished his speech, he spent half an hour signing autographs, giving out hugs and talking to the hundreds in attendance. After taking a break to get a bite to eat, Traficant came back out to the crowd to say hello to all his supporters. Traficant encouraged everyone to stand up for what they believe is wrong: something he says American citizens are afraid to do. "People are so scared, they won't open their mouths. But it can come from Northeast Ohio, from Youngstown, Ohio," Traficant said.
As for his future, Traficant dropped a few hints throughout his speech about some upcoming comments. "Use your own judgment. It'll be very controversial for me. If you don't totally agree with me, that's fine. But, follow it," said Traficant.
