Resignation Statement From Foley's Former Chief of Staff

Oct. 4, 2006 — -- Kirk Fordham, top Republican aide and former chief of staff to disgraced Rep. Mark Foley, resigned today amid concerns about his role in the scandal surrounding sexually explicit e-mail messages sent by Foley to underage congressional pages. Below is the text:

"I have resigned today from Congressman Tom Reynolds' office. It is clear the Democrats are intent on making me a political issue in my boss's race, and I will not let them do so.

I want to clarify a few things: When I sought to help Congressman Foley and his family when his shocking secrets were being revealed, I did so as a friend of my former boss, not as Congressman Reynolds' chief of staff. I reached out to the Foley family, as any good friend would, because I was worried about their emotional well-being.

At the same time, I want it to be perfectly clear that I never attempted to prevent any inquiries or investigation of Foley's conduct by House officials or any other authorities.

Like so many, I feel betrayed by Mark Foley's indefensible behavior. Again, I will not allow the Democrats to make me a political issue in my boss's race, and I will fully cooperate with the ongoing investigation."