Remember earlier this year, when Tom DeLay allowed the GOP caucus to reverse course on the “DeLay Rule”? It led Congress to keep its rule mandating that lawmakers in leadership roles give up their posts if indicted.
Right about now, I think DeLay might have some second thoughts about the move.
A Texas grand jury’s recent interest in conspiracy charges could lead to last-minute criminal indictments — possibly against House Majority Leader Tom DeLay — as it wraps up its investigation Wednesday into DeLay’s state political organization, according to lawyers with knowledge of the case.
Conspiracy counts against two DeLay associates this month raised concerns with DeLay’s lawyers, who fear the chances are greater that the majority leader could be charged with being part of the conspiracy. Before these counts, the investigation was more narrowly focused on the state election code.
By expanding the charges to include conspiracy, prosecutors made it possible for the Travis County grand jury to bring charges against DeLay. Otherwise, the grand jury would have lacked jurisdiction under state laws.
More tomorrow. Pass the popcorn.
Update: Down goes DeLay.
Full Coverage:
* White House not distancing itself from DeLay — yet
* Setting the record straight on Ronnie Earle