GOP Rep. Trey Redel To Resign Today In Wake Of Bust For Cocaine Possession

Freshman US House Rep. Trey Radel (R-FL), who billed himself as a "hip-hop conservative," will resign today. Radel was busted for cocaine possession in November.

Radel's decision to step down was confirmed by his chief of staff, Dave Natonski. Radel, a freshman who represents a Fort Myers-based district, returned to work in Washington earlier this month after taking a leave of absence to undergo treatment at a rehab facility. He had vowed to stay in office after pleading guilty to a misdemeanor charge of cocaine possession. Radel, 37, pleaded guilty Nov. 20 in District of Columbia Superior Court and was sentenced to supervised probation for one year, ordered to undergo substance abuse treatment and fined $250. He was caught buying 3.5 grams of cocaine on Oct. 29 from an undercover police officer.

Among those reportedly eyeing Radel's seat is former GOP Rep. Connie Mack, who represented that district until his failed Senate bid in 2012. (Tipped by JMG reader Matt)