Members of South Carolina’s congressional delegation reacted Wednesday to the indictment of House Majority Leader Tom DeLay, R-Texas:

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“By issuing an indictment today against Mr. DeLay, liberal Democrat (prosecutor) Ronnie Earle is demonstrating politics at its worst and is continuing his personal vendetta against Republican leaders... I am confident that Congressman DeLay will also be vindicated from this blatant, partisan attack.”

— U.S. Rep. Joe Wilson, R-S.C.

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“An indictment, although serious, is, in effect, an accusation. I feel sure he will get a speedy and fair trial.”

— U.S. Rep. Jim Clyburn, D-S.C.

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“Congressman DeLay will have every opportunity to present his defense against these charges in the proper venue. His decision to step aside from a leadership role was proper and in keeping with our established rules.”

— U.S. Rep. Henry Brown, R-S.C.

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“The news of an indictment of Rep. DeLay... is disappointing. We must allow the legal process to move forward. He should be afforded the same presumption of innocence we give to all Americans. No citizen, elected official or not, is above the law. If Rep. DeLay is found guilty in a court of law, then he should be held accountable.”

— U.S. Rep. Gresham Barrett, R-S.C.

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“Within three hours, a replacement was unanimously named. I hope today is an indication of how small a disruption this is going to be to the legislative process for the rest of this Congress”

— U.S. Rep. Bob Inglis, R-S.C.

Compiled by Lee Bandy