GOP Congressman Abruptly Quits

Blake Farenthold of Texas wasn't running for re-election anyway after harassment allegations
By Newser Editors and Wire Services
Posted Apr 6, 2018 4:35 PM CDT
GOP Congressman Abruptly Quits
In this Dec. 19, 2017, file photo, Rep. Blake Farenthold, R-Texas, arrives for a meeting of House Republicans on Capitol Hill in Washington.   (AP Photo/Susan Walsh, File)

A Texas congressman beset by a slew of sexual harassment issues is leaving office sooner than expected. Republican Blake Farenthold, who previously decided not to seek re-election, has abruptly resigned—as of 5pm Friday, reports USA Today. “While I planned on serving out the remainder of my term in Congress, I know in my heart it’s time for me to move along and look for new ways to serve," he says in a statement. Farenthold has acknowledged that he oversaw a congressional office with a frat-house atmosphere, but his biggest scandal was the revelation that he used taxpayer money to pay an $84,000 sexual harassment settlement to a former female staffer. The House ethics panel was investigating his behavior, and it's unclear whether those inquiries played a role in the quick resignation. (Read more Congress stories.)

We use cookies. By Clicking "OK" or any content on this site, you agree to allow cookies to be placed. Read more in our privacy policy.
Get the news faster.
Tap to install our app.
X
Install the Newser News app
in two easy steps:
1. Tap in your navigation bar.
2. Tap to Add to Home Screen.

X