Democrats say House Majority Leader Tom DeLay (R-Texas) should step down, Republicans say he shouldn't, but members of both parties say his leadership role may be jeopardized as a result of ethical worries.

DeLay has been rebuked three times for ethical lapses, with the last two coming in less than two weeks. Democrats say he is unfit to lead.

Republicans countered that the attacks on DeLay are purely partisan. But some said he may not rise to the position of House Speaker due to his controversies.

DeLay aides are under indictment in Texas for their fundraising activities for one of his political action committees. He was admonished by an ethics committee for suggesting that campaign contributions will influence legislation.

DeLay's associates in Washington are accused of bilking six tribes out of at least $66 million. Tribal leaders were told by lobbyist Jack Abramoff and public relations consultant Michael Scanlon that they needed to gain favor with DeLay, according to testimony at a recent hearing.

Get the Story:
Democratic Leaders Call for DeLay's Ouster (The Washington Post 10/8)
Links Between Lobbying, Fundraising, Legislation Laid Out (The Washington Post 10/8)
After Ethics Rebukes, DeLay's Fortunes May Lie With His Party's (The New York Times 10/8)
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