Wyden & Merkley call for Wu's resignation (updated)

Kari Chisholm

Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley have released a joint statement calling on Congressman David Wu to resign. In its entirety:

The accusations against David Wu are both jarring and exceptionally serious.

While he – like every American – deserves an opportunity to address those accusations and defend himself, our constituents in the first district of Oregon deserve a member in the House of Representatives whose main focus is fighting for their interests.

This is a critical time for our state and our nation and Oregonians need every member of their Congressional delegation to be effective. While no one takes pleasure in asking a colleague to resign, we believe he can no longer be an effective representative for our shared constituents and should, in the best interest of Oregon, step down.

Whoa. If there's any doubt about whether Wu can be an effective Congressman over the next 18 months, I think this pretty much slams the door on that.

Update, 10:27 a.m.: Here's their statement on Wu's resignation.

The allegations before Congressman Wu are deeply disturbing and clearly hindered his ability to be an effective representative for the First District. He has made the right choice in resigning.

We hope the governor will move quickly in calling for a special election.

By Kari Chisholm July 26, 2011