Federal Judge Reopens Deal Bankruptcy Filing

ATLANTA — A federal judge has reopened a bankruptcy filing that raised more questions about Republican gubernatorial nominee Nathan Deal.

The bankruptcy filing involves Deal's daughter and son-in-law and a failed sporting goods store.

A U.S. bankruptcy trustee wanted the case reopened because Deal's son-in-law did not reveal a previous bankruptcy.

Deal's daughter and son-in-law opened Wilder Outdoors in Habersham County, backed by $2 million in guaranteed loans backed by Deal and his wife.

Channel 2's Lori Geary questioned the two leading candidates for governor after they met in a debate on Wednesday.

"It does not affect me and it does not affect this campaign," Deal told Geary.

Congressional records obtained by Geary show Deal listed himself as a partner in the business venture and that he had 50 percent ownership. Deal's name is not on the bankruptcy filing.

Deal's campaign accountant said last week the omission was a mistake.

Geary asked Deal if his name should have been on the original filing. "No. It should not have been unless I was going to make a claim against the individuals who are filing and I certainly didn't intend to do that. I was an investor," Deal responded.

Deal's Democratic opponent, Roy Barnes, weighed in on the developments. "When you start transferring assets and debts, particularly when you start transferring debts so you won't be listed on a bankruptcy petition because you're running for governor, it's complicated by design," said Barnes.

"If you had a business, who would you want running it right now? Me or Congressman Deal?"

Deal told Geary he will repay all of his obligations by selling some of his assets.

Deal said he's assured by the polls that voters are not paying attention to his financial issues because they are not central to governing the state.

WSBTV