House Armed Services Committee member Rep. Rob Andrews (D-N.J.) announced Tuesday morning he would leave Congress after the upcoming President’s Day recess to join a Washington law firm.
The congressman leaves amid an investigation into whether he used campaign funds to finance a family vacation to Scotland, though he said in a resignation speech in his home district that his reasons for leaving were strictly personal, not political.
“A law firm with which my family and I have enjoyed deep and personal bonds stretching over three decades has offered me the opportunity to lead its Government Affairs practice,” he said, according to a transcript of the press conference made available by Philly.com. “This is an opportunity that requires a decision now. … After the most careful consideration, I have decided to accept this new role at the Dilworth Paxson law firm, a firm deeply rooted in high standards of professional excellence and public service. Accordingly, I will be leaving the Congress during the forthcoming President’s Day recess, on February 18, and joining the firm shortly thereafter.”
Andrews leaves an open seat on the HASC emerging threats and capabilities and the oversight and investigations subcommittees.
HASC ranking member Adam Smith (D-Wash.) said Tuesday afternoon that “Congressman Andrews has been an integral part of the Armed Services Committee and his leadership, tenacity and expertise will be greatly missed. Rob has a depth of knowledge on a wide range of national security issues and regularly engaged in spirited debates. While he stood firmly behind his positions and his principles, he was also always cordial and respectful of his colleagues.”