Ex-Gov. Robert Bentley Says He Was 'Best' Alabama Had Despite Scandal

BIRMINGHAM, AL — Alabama's disgraced former Gov. Robert Bentley says he was the best governor in the state's history three months after pleading guilty to criminal campaign finance charges and resigning.

Bentley, 74, pleaded guilty to misdemeanor campaign finance charges following a sex-tinged scandal with a female adviser.

The lid blew off the story last year when leaked audio recordings seemed to catch the governor speaking salaciously and candidly with his alleged mistress. Prosecutors believed Bentley, who is divorced, used campaign funds to cover up his affair with Rebekah Caldwell Mason, a former staffer.

Despite the scandal, be told WVTM-TV he was "by far" the best governor ever of Alabama.

Robert Bentley: "I'm the best governor Alabama's ever had" https://t.co/cvPMo7Jmoc pic.twitter.com/RdYHyLxt6u
— WVTM 13 (@WVTM13) July 18, 2017

Bentley said he accomplished more in seven years than the state's five previous governors, including Gov. Jim Folsom Jr., who is widely credited with launching the state's automotive industry by helping to attract Mercedes-Benz.

Bentley, a doctor, has returned to practicing dermatology in Tuscaloosa since quitting in April. He was replaced by Kay Ivey, who has dismantled some advisory panels created by her fellow Republican.

Photo credit: Brynn Anderson/Associated Press