Just over two months after he plead guilty to charges of cocaine possession in Washington, D.C., Rep. Trey Radel (R-FL) announced his resignation from the Congress, saying he "cannot fully and effectively serve as a United States Representatives to the place I love and call home, Southwest Florida."
The move was welcome news to Republicans from Florida, many of whom wanted Radel to resign as soon as news broke in November that he had been busted after a cocaine purchase by federal agents in Washington.
One GOP Congressman from Florida told me it was "the right thing to do."
Here is the text of Radel's resignation letter:
Mr. Speaker,
It has been an honor to serve my neighbors, friends and family of Florida's 19th Congressional District.
Regardless of some personal struggles in 2013, this year has already been tremendously positive as I focus on my health, family and faith.
Unfortunately, some of my struggles had serious consequences. While I have dealt with those issues on a personal level, it is my belief that professionally I cannot fully and effectively serve as a United States Representatives to the place I love and call home, Southwest Florida.
I hereby submit this letter of resignation as the Representative of the 19th District of Florida, effective 6:30 pm, Eastern Standard Time, January 27, 2014. Please find the attached letter I have submitted to Governor Rick Scott.
On a personal note, Mr. Speaker, to you and your colleagues from both parties, I thank you. Thank you for the tremendous support and encouragment. Oftentimes in Congress, our personal relationships and successes are overshadowed by intense but meaningful and necessary debate. However, I leave the House of Representatives with friendships and memories of great men and women dedicated to helping and improving the lives of our fellow Americans.
As an eternal optimist, I know there are great things in store for our country when we find ways to work together. Whether it is as a father, a husband, or in any future endeavor, I hope to contribute what I can to better our country in the years to come.
Sincerely,
Trey Radel
Member of Congress
Just over two months after he plead guilty to charges of cocaine possession in Washington, D.C., Rep. Trey Radel (R-FL) announced his resignation from the Congress, saying he "cannot fully and effectively serve as a United States Representatives to the place I love and call home, Southwest Florida." The move ...
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