Embattled congressman denies resignation rumors
 An embattled congressman is denying newspaper reports and rumors that he plans on resigning today, according to a Capitol Hill newspaper.
"Despite rumors to the contrary, Rep. Rick Renzi (R-Ariz.) said in a brief statement Friday morning that he intends to serve out the remainder of his current term, his third in the House,"
Roll Call reports.
“I am honored to have recently been re-elected, and I’m looking forward to continuing to serve the people of the 1st district for the next two years,” Renzi said.
On Thursday, The Business Journal of Phoenix reported that Renzi "could soon step down in the wake of a federal investigation into his involvement in a federal land swap deal and FBI raids of an insurance agency owned by his wife," and that "his resignation could come as early as Friday or soon after, according to sources familiar with the matter."
Roll Call adds, "Telephone calls and e-mails to Renzi’s office seeking a further explanation of the Congressman’s plans were not returned."
Last week, Renzi resigned, at least temporarily, from the House Intelligence Committee, due to the ongoing federal investigation.
Excerpts from Business Journal of Phoenix article:
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Top Republicans, including U.S. Sen. Jon Kyl, have been meeting to discuss what they will do if Renzi resigns and his rural congressional seat opens up.
Republican leaders also are starting to encourage Renzi to resign, saying a prolonged investigation will hurt the party's chances of holding onto his Arizona seat, according to knowledgeable sources.
Democrats also are preparing for a Renzi exit. Cottonwood attorney Jim Ledbetter is among those being recruited by party leadership to run for Renzi's seat in a possible special election.
The federal investigation is looking at Renzi's involvement in a land swap deal including a possible payment by a former business partner, according to The Hill newspaper. The Wall Street Journal reports that a grand jury has been convened in Tucson to investigate Renzi.
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FULL ARTICLE CAN BE READ AT THIS LINK
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