McDermott challenger calls for his resignation

Republican Steve Beren, who lost to Rep. Jim McDermott in the 2006 7th District race and is challening him again this time around, has called for McDermott to step down as a result of today's legal ruling that requires he pay over $1M in legal fees and fines to Rep. John Boehner. Beren's statement is below.

"Today is April Fools Day, and it is time for Jim McDermott to stop fooling around. It is time for a new exit strategy, one that removes McDermott from office. Jim McDermott should cut a check, pay the fine, and resign now! The time has come for McDermott to go. When you look at the record of this case, you have to conclude that McDermott has placed himself above the law. A member of congress ought to be a citizen representative, with the highest ethics and deepest patriotism. McDermott's unethical behavior, unworthy of any citizen, is absolutely unworthy of a member of congress. His flagrant disregard of his legal and ethical responsibilities disqualify him from office. Of course, this is the same McDermott who opposes our troops and opposes a victory strategy in the war against Islamic terrorism. So when McDermott puts himself above the law, it's hardly surprising."