Former GOP Leader Tom DeLay resigned Monday night.

DeLay, who was indicted for money laundering charges last year, claimed to have stepped down and dropped out of the re-election race for the good of the Republican party. According to CNN, DeLay said his stepping down has nothing to do with the previous scandal but that it was time to do something else.

“People need to hear his answers,” said State Rep. Bob Pritchard (R-Hinckley). Pritchard said ethics have been a problem in Springfield, and “citizens are rising up in opposition to that kind of politics.”

DeLay’s resignation removes a target for the democratic party, said political science professor Gregory Schmidt.

“Although there could have been personal reasons for his stepping down, it will undoubtedly help damage control,” Schmidt said.

In a video announcement, DeLay made it clear he was protecting his seat.

“I refuse to allow liberal democrats an opportunity to steal this seat with a negative personal campaign,” DeLay said in the announcement.

In a press release Tuesday, House Speaker Dennis Hastert (R-IL) said DeLay “persevered through even the toughest attacks on Republican ideals and principles.” Hastert also said DeLay was an effective majority leader who restored national defense, improved many American family’s lives, and strengthened the economy.

“House Republicans will continue to move forward with an aggressive agenda on behalf of the American people,” Hastert said.