Why Renzi is not resigning

Most independent observers are shocked that Congressman Rick Renzi has not resigned his seat after being indicted on 35 counts last Friday.  The Fed’s don’t usually indict unless they have a solid case, never mind 35 counts. 

Republican Congressional leader John Boehner (R-OH) has urged Renzi to step down, but Renzi today issued a statement saying he is not guilty so has no reason to resign.  And there lies the crux to the problem.  If Renzi were to resign the appearance of guilt would be great.  For Renzi and his lawyers to fight these charges they need to do the best job they can in keeping the public perspective that he will maintain his innocence and fight the charges. 

No doubt Renzi’s team of lawyers will be doing everything they can in their power to work a deal that will keep the Congressman out of jail.  To fight the inevitable Renzi will need every bargaining chip he has to work out the best deal he can.  The two biggest chips he has are his appearance to be willing to fight the charges, which will lead to an expensive trial, and his current seat in Congress.  Renzi can use both of those negotiating points for a plea that will “he hopes” keep him out of jail or at least minimize the jail time. 

Will it work?  Who knows, but don’t look for Renzi to do anything he can to make the Federal prosecution’s job any easier.