Majority Leader Reid and Minority Leader McConnell, also made it clear they expect Stevens to leave, although neither used the word "resign" in their statements. "Sen. Stevens was found guilty by a jury of his peers and now must face the consequences of those actions," McConnell said. "As a result of his conviction, Sen. Stevens will be held accountable so the public trust can be restored." Reid said the conviction was "a personal tragedy" for Stevens, "but it is an important reminder that no man is above the law.
Sen. Stevens must now respect the outcome of the judicial process and the dignity of the United States Senate." McCain was more direct. "It is clear that Sen. Stevens has broken his trust with the people and that he should now step down," he said in a statement issued by his campaign.
Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin, McCain's running mate, also said today Stevens should step down even if he wins Tuesday.
