November 1, 2008

WASHINGTON D.C. - Nevada Senator Harry Reid released the following statement on Senator Ted Stevens' future status as a United States Senator :
 
While I understand that Senator Stevens is fighting for his political career, you don't have to go any further than the comments of:

• Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell who said there would be zero tolerance for a convicted felon in the United States Senate
• NRSC Chairman Senator John Ensign who said Senator Stevens'career has ended in disgrace;
• Or Republican Presidential candidate Senator John McCain who said it is clear that Senator Stevens has broken his trust with the people and should now step down.

While I respect the opinion of Senator Daniel Inoyue, the reality is that a convicted felon is not going to be able to serve in the United States Senate.
 
And as precedent shows us, Senator Stevens will face an ethics committee investigation and expulsion, regardless of his appeals process.
 
This is not a partisan issue and it is unfortunate that Senator Stevens has used his long time friendship with Senator Inouye for partisan political gain.