Letter to J. Dennis Hastert

September 15, 2006

The Honorable J. Dennis Hastert

Speaker

United States House of Representatives

H-232, The Capitol

Washington, D.C. 20515

Dear Mr. Speaker:

Today, Representative Robert Ney agreed to plead guilty to criminal charges involving corruption and false statements. Among other things, Mr. Ney has now admitted to undertaking a number of official actions in exchange for gifts, travel, and campaign contributions. Justice Department Criminal Division chief Alice Fisher noted that Mr. Ney has engaged in a "long-term pattern to deprive the public of his honest, unbiased services as an elected official."

According to the Department of Justice press release issued today, Mr. Ney will not formally enter his guilty plea until October 13, at which time he must refrain from participating in the deliberations of any Committees of which he is a member and relinquish the Chair of the Subcommittee on Housing and Opportunity of the Committee on Financial Services.

In view of his admissions, it is unseemly for Mr. Ney to retain this sensitive position until October 13. I request, therefore, that you take whatever steps are necessary to remove him therefrom. I look forward to your response.

Sincerely,

Nancy Pelosi

House Democratic Leader

http://democraticleader.house.gov/press/releases.cfm?pressReleaseID=1801