Written Statement from Steve Ellis, Vice President of Taxpayers for Common Sense on Sen. Stevens (R-AK) indictment

“Taxpayers for Common Sense has learned that Sen. Ted Stevens (R-AK) has been indicted on corruption charges. Exactly a year ago when this investigation came to light, TCS called on Minority Leader McConnell to have Sen. Stevens recuse himself from his committee assignments. This is even more critical now and TCS renews its call. As we stated then, Senator Stevens is entitled to due process and remains innocent until proven otherwise. But considering his role as a powerful appropriator and ranking member of Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee, he should be immediately removed from those capacities. Taxpayers have a right to demand that their elected officials maintain the highest ethical standards and today’s events have made it even more clear that Sen. Stevens traded political favors for personal gain.”

July 2007 TCS letter to Sen. McConnell

Stevens Indictment: July 29, 2008

Update (4:00 PM)

There are no Senate rules regarding committee assignments in the event of an indictment. Under Senate GOP rules, however, Senator Ted Stevens will need to immediately step down from his position as ranking member of the Commerce Science Transportation Committee and his ranking member position on the Defense Appropriations Subcommittee.
 

Update (4:30 PM)

While he remains on the two Senate committees, according to Rollcall, Sen. Ted Stevens (R-Alaska), has stepped down from his leadership positions

Final Update (6:42 PM)

Written Statement by Steve Ellis, Vice President of Taxpayers For Common Sense on Sen. Stevens losing Committee Leadership Positions: