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Washington, DC -- In the wake of a 16-count indictment against William Jefferson of Louisiana, Congressman Zack Space (D-OH), a leader on ethics reform in the House of Representatives, today called for a thorough ethics investigation into Jefferson’s actions. Jefferson was indicted on 16 counts of racketeering, solicitation of bribes by a public official, obstruction of justice, and money laundering.
“The people of the 18th Congressional District know more than any other Americans what it means to feel a sense of betrayal from a Congressman,” said Space. “Bob Ney’s actions over the last few years cut deeply into our belief that Congress is the people’s house and left us, for months, without a Representative in the House of Representatives.”
“That’s why it’s so important that we move quickly and swiftly on this issue. Cleaning up Washington is not an issue of party politics,” said Space. “Our obligation to the American people transcends political affiliation. If someone is guilty of violating House rules or more broadly, has seriously compromised the integrity of this institution, we should take whatever actions are necessary to restore the trust of the American people in their elected officials.”
“Voters throughout this country are disgusted by an investigatory system that is slow to act simply because, in its present form, Members investigate other Members,” said Space. “I have said before and I will say again that we must revamp that system. We need to create an independent system that would provide a more honest and candid judgment on any ethics troubles that Members of Congress have. Today’s indictment is yet another reminder of the absolute need for an independent voice in our effort to clean up Congress.”
“In the meantime, we owe it to the people of his District and the American public to investigate these very serious allegations, put this sad affair behind us, and get back to the business of legislating,” said Space.
Congressman Space represents Ohio’s 18th Congressional District. Elected in 2006, he is working to restore integrity to the office, expand Ohio’s economy, and support renewable energy.
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