Rep. David Wu suggests he may not finish term as ethics probe begins

[The Straight Story]

Rep. David Wu suggests he may not finish term as ethics probe begins

WASHINGTON -- Facing a potentially damaging ethics investigation and evaporating support from allies, Rep. David Wu suggested to colleagues Monday that he may resign before his current term ends in 2012, even while insisting he did nothing "illegal."

Wu's potential shift came on a day when his hold on power became more tenuous. Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi formally called for an ethics investigation into allegations that Wu had an unwanted sexual encounter with a teenager in late November. And one of his closest friends in Congress suggested he should step down if it is in the best interest of Wu's family and future.

Wu announced late Sunday through an intermediary that he wanted to finish his term and retire, meaning he would remain a member of Congress until the end of 2012. That decision drew an immediate response from Pelosi, who formally asked Monday for a full-throated ethics investigation of the case.

Rep. John Larson, D-Conn., who was elected the same year as Wu and is a key leadership aide to Pelosi, spoke with Wu for 40 minutes just off the House floor on Monday.

http://www.oregonlive.com/politics/index.ssf/2011/07/rep_david_wu_suggests_he_may_n.html

[cal04]

1. msnbc : Democratic Rep. David Wu of Oregon says he's resigning from Congress

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/
Democratic Rep. David Wu of Oregon says he's resigning from Congress - AP

[fredamae]

2. I think thats the best decision he's made in a long time. n/t

[sharp_stick]

3. The sooner he's out of Congress the better n/t

[cal04]

4. his statement: upon resolution of debt ceiling crisis

It has been the greatest privilege of my life to be a United States Congressman. Rare is the nation in which an immigrant child can become a national political figure. I thank God and my parents for the privilege of being an American.

Now, however, the time has come to hand on the privilege of high office. I cannot care for my family the way I wish while serving in Congress and fighting these very serious allegations.

The well being of my children must come before anything else. With great sadness, I therefore intend to resign effective upon the resolution of the debt-ceiling crisis. This is the right decision for my family, the institution of the House, and my colleagues.

It is also the only correct decision to avoid any distraction from the important work at hand in Washington. I intend to go forward with new resolve and love of family, the State of Oregon, and our nation.


http://tpmmuckraker.talkingpointsmemo.com/2011/07/david_wu_resigns_from_congress_over_teen_sex_scand.php

[Renew Deal]

6. I bet he's hoping for the Boehner bill.

No resolution for months!

[Renew Deal]

5. What is wrong with these guys?

They're just crazy.