That was one of the first, or in the early stages of me reading and understanding indictments, it was a clear case, but they changed the rules regarding corruption at the SC, and what influence peddling can be categorized as.
McDonnell was taking gifts in the form of luxury items, OScar De La Renta dresses for his wife, tickets, use of yachts., planes, use of condos and vacation homes, that is unquestionable,
McDonnell did this to grant audience to a lobbyist type and his backer, to discuss business with the state regulatory agencies about their products, something to do with cigarettes and tobacco alkaloids
The part that was contested, appealed, and was the interpretation of the law, that they didn't clearly define the quid pro quo of the exchange, as in he didn't technically GIVE anything to the lobbyist/businessman but access. The SC pretty much said that;s standard politics.
think I still have that saved, I'll find it.