CLARK COUNTY, WASHINGTON
Embattled Curtis steps down
Thursday, November 01, 2007
BY KATHIE DURBIN,
Columbian staff writer
Ending 48 hours of speculation about his political future, disgraced state Rep. Richard Curtis submitted his resignation Wednesday to Gov. Chris Gregoire, effective immediately.
"While I believe we've done some good and helped a lot of people during the time I served in the Legislature, events that have recently come to light have hurt a lot of people," Curtis, a La Center Republican, said in a statement released by the House Republican Caucus. "I sincerely apologize for any pain my actions may have caused."
Curtis, under fire after revelations that he allegedly initiated sex with a male **** model while in Spokane last week, faced pressure from the caucus and the state party to step down. Party leaders were prepared to call publicly for his resignation if he did not agree to resign.
"I am very disappointed by the news reports of the conduct by Rep. Curtis last week in Spokane," House Republican leader Richard DeBoldt of Chehalis said in a statement released simultaneously with Curtis's resignation announcement.
"After discussing this matter with House Republican leaders, he has submitted his resignation, which we feel is best for everyone involved," DeBoldt said. "The troubling details continue to emerge. ... It has become clear that he can no longer effectively represent the constituents who elected him. We pray that Richard and his family have the strength and support they need to meet the personal challenges they face."
"Representative Curtis did the right thing by resigning today, as it was clear he could no longer effectively represent either the Republican Party or his constituents," said State Republican Party Chairman Luke Esser.
"I recognize this is a very difficult time for the Curtis family and the La Center community," Gov. Gregoire said in a statement. "My thoughts and prayers are with everyone involved."