WASHINGTON, Nov. 17 (UPI) -- In a move to protect U.S. House Majority Leader Tom DeLay, Republicans Wednesday changed caucus rules to ensure he can keep his job if indicted.
The conservative Texas Republican is believed to be the target of an ongoing criminal investigation into the activities of a political action group he started in his home state.
The investigation by Travis County District Attorney Ronnie Earle so far has led to the indictments of three of DeLay's political associates.
However, DeLay has not been subpoenaed and denies any wrongdoing.
Under previous House rules, any GOP leader would be required to automatically leave a leadership position if indicted on charges that carry a sentence of two or more years in prison.
Decried by House Democrats along with some House Republicans, the changes protect party leaders from having to leave their post if indicted on state-level charges, leaving the removal rule in place solely for federal charges.
House Democratic Whip Steny Hoyer of Maryland noted Republicans came to power a decade ago at least partially on their attacks against Democratic corruption.
"Today, Republicans sold their collective soul to maintain their grip on power," Hoyer said.
