DeLay won’t seek return to majority leader role
Move clears way for election of new House leadership amid scandal
MSNBC News Services
Updated: 8:18 p.m. ET Jan. 7, 2006
WASHINGTON - Rep. Tom DeLay, the defiant face of a conservative revolution in Congress, stepped down as House majority leader on Saturday under pressure from Republicans staggered by an election-year corruption scandal.
“During my time in Congress, I have always acted in an ethical manner within the rules of our body and the laws of our land,” the Texas lawmaker told fellow Republicans in a letter informing them of his decision.
Still, referring to criminal charges he faces in his home state, he added, “I cannot allow our adversaries to divide and distract our attention.”
DeLay temporarily gave up his leadership post after he was charged, but always insisted he would reclaim his duties after clearing his name.
