Ney steps down

last updated 8 January 2015

Washington, D.C.

An Ohio congressman at the center of the investigation into disgraced lobbyist Jack Abramoff temporarily resigned his post as chairman of the House Administration Committee, which oversees lobbying. “I have done absolutely nothing wrong,” said Republican Bob Ney. “Unfortunately, it has become clear to me in recent days that the false allegations made against me have become a distraction.” Abramoff, who has struck a deal with prosecutors, says he gave Ney lavish gifts and donations in exchange for favors. In response to the scandal, Republicans are proposing an overhaul of lobbying and fund-raising rules—matters that will come before the Administration Committee.