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For me public service is about doing the right thing, even if it's not always the politically expedient, easy or popular thing to do. Last night, as a matter of conscience, I formally called on Congressman Charles Rangel to step down as Chair of the House Ways and Means Committee, following a report that he knowingly violated House ethics rules. I'm sure there are those in my party who thought I should've stood with Rep. Rangel just because he was a Democrat, but I am committed to doing what is right. When Tom DeLay and Jack Abramoff ran the show in Congress, Washington Republicans turned a blind eye to corruption in their own ranks and put the special interests in charge of regulating Wall Street banks and the health insurance industry. I won't let that happen on my watch. It doesn't matter if you're a high-ranking Democratic Congressman or the CEO of a bailed out bank - if you violate the public trust, you must be held accountable for your actions. To be true to that principle, I'm donating every penny of the $14,000 I received from Rep. Rangel's campaign committees in 2008, prior to the ethics inquiry, to local charities. My opponents will use this as an opportunity to attack me, which is why I am asking for your help. I'm committed to fixing what's broken with Washington - even if that means standing up to my own party's leadership - but I can't do it alone. As always, thanks for your continued support. |
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Sincerely, P.S. With our next critical fundraising deadline just four weeks away, you can also help by forwarding this email to four friends and asking them to make a $10 contribution today. |
