Congressman John Conyers of Michigan announced Tuesday he would retire from Congress effective immediately, making him the first sitting congressman to resign amid the wave of sexual misconduct allegations that has swamped the nation in recent months.
“I am retiring today,” Conyers told a Detroit radio station. “I am in the process of putting together my retirement plans.”
Conyers, who stands accused of sexual harassment by two former staffers, continues to deny any wrongdoing, insisting he is retiring for health reasons. He also endorsed his son, John Conyers III, to run for his seat to replace him.
“My legacy can’t be compromised or diminished in any way by what we’re going through now. This, too, shall pass. My legacy will continue through my children,” Conyers said.
Conyers’ son isn’t the only member of the family eyeing his seat. The New York Times reported prior to Rep. Conyers’ announcement Tuesday that his brother’s grandson Ian Conyers was planning to run as well.
“I’m absolutely going to file for his seat. The work of our congressional district, where I come out of, has to continue,” Ian Conyers told the Times.
According to BuzzFeed‘s Darren Sands, Ian Conyers is not deterred by John Conyers’ endorsement of his own son:
NEW: @IanConyers on whether his great-uncle’s wishes for his son to replace him in retirement changed his decision to run: “Not one bit.”
— Darren Sands (@darrensands) December 5, 2017
