Statement from Congressman Chaka Fattah

Statement

"This has been an eight-year effort by some in the Department of Justice to link my public service career to some form of wrongdoing. With today's charges, this misguided campaign has now moved from speculation to specific allegations.

"As I have previously stated, I have never participated in any illegal activity or misappropriation of taxpayer dollars as an elected official. For the last 21 years, I have represented the people of Philadelphia in Congress with honor and dignity, helping millions of families through my efforts focused on education, employment, mortgage relief, and health care. I will proudly continue to serve my constituents and look forward to helping millions more.

"Per House rules and precedent, I have stepped aside from my role as Ranking Member on the Appropriations Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, and Science.

"This will not be a distraction from my service to the people that elected me, and I am confident that I will be cleared of these charges."

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