Roanoke Times
                 Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.

DATE: THURSDAY, May 18, 1995                   TAG: 9505180054
SECTION: VIRGINIA                    PAGE: C-4   EDITION: METRO 
SOURCE: 
DATELINE: FAIRFAX                                LENGTH: Short

MCGOVERN CHARGED WITH RECKLESS DRIVING

The former U.S. senator from South Dakota was issued a citation March 15 for driving more than 80 mph, according to court records. Speeding more than 20 mph over a posted speed limit is considered reckless driving under Virginia law.

McGovern, who teaches a class at George Washington University, said he was en route to Washington Dulles International Airport to catch a plane to the Middle East.

``I wasn't driving recklessly,'' he said. ``I've never driven more carefully.''

McGovern left his class at 6 p.m. and said he knew he would have to hurry to make his 6:30 p.m. flight.

``I decided I'd take my lumps,'' he said about rushing to the airport. ``I didn't ask for any special treatment.''

Despite the ticket, McGovern said he was able to catch his flight because it was delayed 20 minutes.

McGovern, a Democrat, was defeated by then-President Nixon in the 1972 election.

- Associated Press