Olmert: I have never accepted bribery

PM acknowledges Talansky helped him raise money in several campaigns but says it was all done legally.

olmert press conference (photo credit: Channel 10)
olmert press conference
(photo credit: Channel 10)
Prime Minister Ehud Olmert acknowledged on Thursday that US citizen Moshe Talansky helped him raise money in several election campaigns. In a press conference held at his official residence minutes after Tel Aviv's District Court decided to ease the gag-order previously placed on the case, Olmert said there was nothing illegal about the campaign contributions he received. "I look into the eyes of each and every one of you," he said, referring to Israeli citizens, "and say that I have never taken a bribe. I never took a penny for myself." He said he would not fight to stay in office if he is charged. "If I am indicted, I will resign my post," he said.