Abramoff-linked Rep. withdraws from re-election bid

RAW STORY
Published: Monday August 7, 2006

A Congressman from Ohio linked to convicted Republican lobbyist Jack Abramoff has withdrawn from his bid for re-election, RAW STORY has learned.

In a statement issued by his campaign office, Bob Ney, Representative from Ohio's 18th district, said "Ultimately this decision came down to my family. I must think of them first, and I can no longer put them through this ordeal."

Although Ney has not yet been charged with any crime, a story from this morning's Pittsburgh Tribune-Review showed Ney facing financial ruin as his legal defense consumed funds to be used in his campaign for re-election. Ney's former chief of staff Neil Volz pleaded guilty in May on corruption charges.

The congressman will be replaced on November's ticket by Ohio State Senator Joy Padgett.

Ney's statement from his campaign website is provided below.

#

Statement By Congressman Bob Ney

Ohio, Aug 7 -

Congressman Bob Ney (OH-18) made the following statement today that he is withdrawing from the 18th Congressional race:

“After much consideration and thought I have decided today to no longer seek re-election in Ohio’s 18th Congressional District. I am extremely proud of my 25 years serving the people of Ohio. We’ve accomplished many things to make this state better and I will always be grateful for the trust my constituents put in me. Ultimately this decision came down to my family. I must think of them first, and I can no longer put them through this ordeal.”

“I am deeply grateful for all of the trust and support my family, friends and constituents have given me over the past two years. I look forward to serving out the rest of my term and serving the constituents of the 18th District.”