WASHINGTON, Jan. 20 (UPI) -- U.S. Rep. Bob Ney, R-Ohio, has vowed to seek re-election even if he is indicted in the federal lobbying probe on Capitol Hill.
Saying he was elected by the constituents of Ohio's 18th District and not by state party officials, Ney told The Hill newspaper that he planned to run for a seventh term.
Ney said he has received so many calls of support "I literally can't return" them all, since Ohio Republican Chairman Bob Bennett told Fox News should Ney be indicted he would be asked to step down.
Ney has been identified as "Representative No. 1" in documents related to the investigation into the actions of lobbyist Jack Abramoff, who has pleaded guilty to fraud, conspiracy and other charges. The representative has been accused of accepting gifts and travel in exchange for legislative favors, The Hill said. The investigation is continuing.
Ney stepped down as chairman of the House Administration Committee but appears ready for another election run.
"My Republicans will decide if I am elected again -- not the party boss," he told The Hill.
