Souder resigns amid sex scandal

FORT WAYNE, Ind. (AP/WANE) - Congressman Mark Souder has announced his resignation from the 3rd District seat he has held since first being elected in 1994. The resignation will be effective this Friday.

During a news conference at his district office inside the Federal Building in downtown Fort Wayne, Souder broke down, cried and admitted to having an affair with a part time staffer.

"I am so ashamed to hurt those I love," said Souder.

Souder apologized for being late.  He had been meeting with his staff prior to his resignation announcement.  Some of those could be seen crying.  Souder did not take any questions after reading his statement.

The office was packed with reporters and photographers from various media outlets. 

Souder won the Republican primary over car dealer Bob Thomas, who spent much of his own money on television commercials portraying Souder as a career politician who wasn't a true fiscal conservative. Souder countered by emphasizing his A-plus marks from the National Rifle Association and 100 percent rating from the National Right to Life Committee.

Souder had been expected to face a stiff challege from Democrat Tom Hayhurst, a former Fort Wayne city councilman who lost a close race to Souder in 2006. It will be up to Republican Gov. Mitch Daniels to decide whether to call a special election to fill the vacancy or wait until the November ballot. One possible Republican replacement for Souder is state Sen. Marlin Stutzman of Howe, who finished second to former Sen. Dan Coats in this month's GOP primary for the U.S. Senate.

Souder did not provide details about the affair.

"As I leave public office, my plans are focused upon repairing my marriage, earning back the trust of my family and my community, and renewing my walk with my Lord," he said.