Fossella Ending Re-election Bid
Fossella Is Said to Be Ending Re-election Bid - New York Times
After more than two weeks of damaging and scandal-filled headlines, Representative Vito J. Fossella of Staten Island has decided not to seek another term in Congress, according to several people close to him.
Mr. Fossella, 43, has been the object of intense scrutiny since he was arrested in a Washington suburb on May 1 and charged with drunken driving. At the time of his arrest, his blood alcohol level was reportedly 0.17 percent, twice the legal limit in Virginia. Under that state’s law, he faces a mandatory five days in jail if convicted.
A week after his arrest, Mr. Fossella, the only Republican representing New York City in Congress, disclosed that he had been on the way to visit Laura Fay, a retired Air Force lieutenant colonel. He acknowledged that he and Ms. Fay had had an affair and that they were the parents of a 3-year-old daughter.
Mr. Fossella is expected to issue a statement on Tuesday, according to officials close to him. It states:
“Despite the personal mistakes I have made, I am touched by the outpouring of support and encouragement I have received from so many people. Their kind words and prayers during this difficult time mean more to me than I can express. And while many have urged me to run for re-election, I believe this course of action is best for my family and our community.”
Until Monday, Mr. Fossella offered signals that he intended to seek a sixth full term in November. After two weeks of near-seclusion, he re-emerged into the Staten Island political scene, attending a Conservative Party dinner and a parade.
Here's a statement from Steve Harrison is campaigning for the Democratic nomination:
"I'm relieved Vito Fossella finally made a decision. I believe he made the obvious one. I hope he and his family find peace in the near future and I ask Mr. Fossella to represent us well during the remainder of his term.
I now turn my attention back to the issues facing the people of the district and America, like Iraq, health care, energy, the environment and, of course the economy. Many in the district have suffered foreclosures and lost jobs. I look forward to debating these issues with the Republican candidate, no matter who that may be. I have not been running against Vito Fossella. I have been running for Congress and I will continue to do so."
Labels: Fossella, NY-13, Steve Harrison
posted by Marc1A at 5/20/2008 12:20:00 PM
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