Rep. Souder, Backer of Harsh Drug Laws, Resigns from Congress

The Congressman who authored legislation to bar students with past drug convictions from getting federal education aid has resigned after admitting to an extramarital affair with a married staff member.

The New York Times reported May 18 that Rep. Mark Souder (R-Ind.), who recently won a tough primary battle, announced that he would resign on Friday. “I sinned against God, my wife and my family by having a mutual relationship with a part-time member of my staff,” said Souder, 59.

In addition to being a leading advocate for tough drug penalties, Souder was known as a backer of abstinence education. He had been known in Congress as a staunch conservative and proponent of traditional family values.