Representative Tom DeLay (R-TX 22nd) has been indicted along with two associates on charges of criminal conspiracy and will temporarily step down from his post as House Majority Leader. The charges stem from allegations that a political action committee started by DeLay violated campaign finance laws.
For the time being, DeLay retains his seat in the House of Representatives, but Republican Party rules require representatives who are under indictment to temporarily step down from leadership roles. DeLay has denied any wrongdoing and claims that the charges are politically motivated.
Representative DeLay has been at the center of several ethics controversies, and has faced several House Ethics Committee investigations. He was admonished by the Committee three times in 2004.