Florida GOP politicians are putting pressure on Rep. Trey Radel to step down from his post after he pleaded guilty to buying cocaine from an undercover police officer in Washington D.C.
Radel was arrested on October 29, after he arranged a drug deal to purchase 3.5 grams of cocaine from an undercover agent. Just ten months into his term as a Congressman, Radel entered rehabilitation and announced that he was taking a leave of absence.
But for local politicians, suspension won't suffice. Lee and Collier County GOP Executive Committees also issued calls for resignation, after emergency meetings were held. Some said they wouldn't back the Florida politician if he refused to step down and ran for another term, MSNBC reported.
"His actions clearly disqualify the pursuit of another term and if he should run for re-election, he would not enjoy our support," the joint statement read. "We feel it is in the best interests of all involved that he resign immediately."
Florida Gov. Rick Scott also agreed with Chairman Curry, according to the Fort Myers News-Press.
"Trey is going through a tough time. My prayers and my wife's prayers are with his family," he stated. "But we have to hold all of our elected officials to the highest standards."
After Radel bought the drugs from an undercover cop in the parking lot of a restaurant in D.C.'s Dupont Circle, he issued a statement in court expressing serious regret.
"I am so sorry to be here," he said. "I have let my constituents, my country and my family down. I want to come out of this stronger and I intend to do that, to be a better man, a better husband and continue serving this country."
