Rogan Offers Bodyguard to Gordon After Ad Snafu

Rep. James E. Rogan (R-Glendale) attacked Democratic challenger Barry Gordon, calling him a financial misfit, and then offered to hire bodyguards to protect him.

A mailer sent out by Rogan’s campaign this week accused Gordon of fiscal irresponsibility because he was the target of four tax liens and once filed for bankruptcy protection.

But the mailer reproduced a portion of a court document that showed Gordon’s home address and Social Security number.

Gordon called the publication an unconscionable invasion of privacy that might endanger him and his wife, both of whom, he said, have been victims of death threats and stalkers. Gordon is an actor and former president of the Screen Actors Guild, and his wife is a psychologist.

Rogan’s campaign manager, Jeff Lennan, said Gordon’s personal finances are fair game in a congressional campaign, but acknowledged that the Democrat’s address and Social Security number should not have been released. Lennan said the campaign mailer will be withdrawn and, to make amends, Rogan has offered to hire bodyguards to protect the Gordons.

“We are concerned about the potential of overzealous individuals doing something regrettable,” Lennan said. “As a result, congressman Rogan is offering to hire a private security firm to alleviate any potential problems that may arise.”

Rogan and Gordon are fighting to represent the 27th Congressional District, which includes Pasadena, Glendale, Burbank and the communities between the Verdugo and San Gabriel mountains.