NEW YORK— After facing several counts of corruption charges, Councilman Dan Halloran announced Wednesday that he is terminating his re-election campaign.
“Regrettably, I must now focus my attention on clearing my name and restoring my reputation,” Halloran said in a statement. “After much thought, I have concluded that it is impossible for me to properly do these things and take on the enormous demands of a political campaign, so I will not to pursue another term in the Council.”
Halloran represents a swing district in northeastern Queens. Halloran, Senator Malcolm Smith, and two Republican party leaders were arrested in April.
The councilman was charged with using bribes and other favors to put Smith on the Republican primary ballot in the mayoral election.
Halloran faces two charges that each have a maximum 20-year prison sentence.
The councilman says in his statement that he will finish his present term and thanks his staff and supporters.
“Our Nation enshrines the presumption of innocence for a reason, and I look forward to having my day in court, where I am confident that I will ultimately be vindicated. Now is the time I must work to that end,” he added.
