GOP Leader Tom Delay Indicted for Conspiracy

Republican House Majority Leader Tom Delay has been indicted in Texas for criminal conspiracy. Three of Delay’s associates, several campaign donors, and corporate businesses have already been indicted. If convicted, Delay could face up to two years in prison; he has agreed to step down from the leadership position “temporarily,” although he will continue to remain a member of the U.S. Congress. Delay has denied any wrongdoing.

The felony indictment comes after a long investigation by Texas prosecutor, Democrat Ronnie Earle. Delay is charged with violating campaign finance laws by funneling $190,000 in corporate contributions through the Republican National Committee from a federal fund into a state fund where corporate contributions are prohibited. Under Texas law, corporate funds may not be used to elect or defeat political candidates.

Delay’s attorney, Steve Brittain, called the indictments politically motivated and said, they “stink like a dead skunk in the middle of the road.” Political analysts are already speculating that the indictment could mean the end of Delay’s political career. Delay was first elected to Congress in 1984. The indictment comes at a time when the Republican Party leadership faces other serious allegations about ethics violations and corruption. GOP Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist is under federal investigation for insider trading after the sale of his stock in a family-owned hospital company. Frist has denied the charges.