Tom Reed announces resignation

WASHINGTON--New York Congressman Tom Reed resigned from Congress, Tuesday, May 10, a spokesman from his office announced. Reed served as the representative for New York's 23rd congressional district, which includes Yates, Schuyler and Steuben Counties along with a section of the state on the Pennsylvania border that extends west to Lake Erie. Reed had previously stated he would not be seeking reelection for the position he has held since 2010 after allegations of inappropriate personal behavior with a lobbyist were made public last year.
"Our office will continue to serve the people of New York's 23rd district through the end of the year or until a new representative is elected and sworn in," a press release of the announcement said.
On the floor of the house, Reed said, "After almost 12 years in Congress, today is my last day. It has been an honor to serve with you all from both parties. I love this institution as it still exemplifies what is best about our government, we are the people's house. While I am proud that we put people before politics, there is much more to do. I am leaving to continue that work and hope to have a greater impact on our country.
I believe the current focus on extremism demands us to heed the words of Abraham Lincoln uttered years ago as we face a similar threat to our existence today-- 'a house divided cannot stand!' But I add-- 'a house united will not fail.' It is time for petty political posturing to end. Leadership must emerge and in God I trust. His divine protection will extend again if only we acknowledge and accept His love and the divine spark that exists in each of us as citizens of our great nation.
I want to thank my family, who without their love and support I am nothing. I also thank the people who have worked for us and helped so many. I am grateful.
My most profound appreciation is for the people of western New York. Thank you for giving a country lawyer, the youngest of twelve, raised by a single mother whose father passed away when he was only two, the honor of representing you at the highest level. Only in America can such a dream come true.
So, I humbly bid farewell and submit my resignation as a member of the House. I wish you all -- Godspeed!"
It was also announced Reed would be joining Charlie Black at the Prime Policy Group in Washington, DC after his retirement from Congress.
With the vacancy in the 23rd district, the Clerk of the House of Representatives will supervise the remaining staff and keep the offices open.
"Staff members of Representative Reed remain on the House payroll under the supervision of the Clerk of the House to receive and undertake constituent casework, to help in handling business with the departments of the executive branch of the government, to provide general status information on pending legislation and to offer other general constituent services provided by House offices. The Clerk of the House is Cheryl L. Johnson," a press release from the clerk stated.
It continues, "The Washington, DC, office and the New York district offices are presently open on a daily basis to accommodate congressional business. Under House Rules, the Clerk manages the offices when a Member dies, resigns, or is expelled. This authority, which does not include voting representation, continues until a successor is elected to fill the vacant seat. This is the thirteenth vacancy to occur during the 117th Congress. Thirteen vacancies occurred in the 116th Congress."
It is expected the governor of New York will call a special election to fill the vacancy created by Reed's resignation. However, the recent debate and rejection by the court of redistricting maps for the state have made the timeline and process to fill the open position unclear.