Alaska Sen. Stevens Convicted Of Lying

[Update 2] A Washington, DC jury convicted Alaskan Republican Sen. Ted Stevens of lying about free home renovations and other gifts he received from a wealthy oil contractor. Sen. John McCain and Gov. Sarah Palin called for Stevens to resign. (NYT, MSNBC) But Stevens could remain in office while appealing the verdict.

The conviction tarnishes Stevens’ re-election campaign and improves the chances for Democratic challenger, Anchorage Mayor Mark Begich, and raises Democrats’ hopes for a 60-seat majority. (Washington Post)

Sources:

• Sen. Ted Stevens Convicted of All Charges in Corruption Case; Despite Guilty Verdict, Alaska Lawmaker Remains on Ballot for Reelection (Washington Post)
• The Jerk; In praise of Ted Stevens, the Senate’s angriest man (TNR)
• List of Charges Against Sen. Stevens (CQ)
• Corruption Conviction of Sen. Stevens Enhances Democrats’ Prospects (Washington Post)
• Stevens says he’s innocent (MSNBC)
• McCain Says Alaska Senator Should Resign (NYT)
• Palin, McCain call for Stevens to quit (MSNBC)