California Congressman Resigns over Bribes
U.S. Rep. Randy “Duke” Cunningham, a California Republican, fought back tears as he resigned on Monday after pleading guilty to taking $2.4 million in bribes in exchange for help in securing Defense Department contracts.
Cunningham, 63, an eight-term congressman and decorated Vietnam War pilot, admitted taking cash, antiques, a yacht, vacation expenses and money for his daughter’s graduation party from several defense contractors between 2000 and 2005.
“I am resigning from the House of Representatives because I’ve compromised the trust of my constituents,” Cunningham told reporters after a hearing in San Diego federal court. He pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit fraud, bribery and tax evasion, as well as one count of failing to report more than $1 million in income in 2004.
Cunningham’s fall was the latest scandal to hit the Republicans who have controlled Congress for over a decade.
Source: Reuters
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