WASHINGTON, D.C. (AP) — Aaron Schock says he is leaving Congress with sadness and humility. He is vowing to work “tirelessly” to make amends to constituents and others he has let down.
In a farewell speech Thursday, the Illinois Republican said his departure from Congress “is not the end of the story, but rather the beginning of a new chapter” in his life.
Schock announced his resignation March 17 following a month-long cascade of revelations about his business deals and lavish spending on everything from overseas travel to office decor in the style of “Downton Abbey.” His last day in office is Tuesday. He voted for the final time Thursday.
Schock said he believes that everyone learns from their mistakes, and compared his ethics scandal with the struggles of Abraham Lincoln.
As Schock leaves Congress under the shadow of a federal investigation, the Rev. Jesse Jackson says his son, former Congressman Jesse Jackson Jr., has been released from an Alabama prison after serving a year and a half for illegally spending $750,000 in campaign funds.
The 50-year-old Jackson will serve the remainder of his sentence at a Washington, D.C., halfway house. Jackson began his 2 1/2-year sentence in 2013. The U.S. Bureau of Prisons lists his release date as Sept. 20, 2015.
The Democrat pleaded guilty to misspending the money on items including furs and vacations.
Jackson’s wife must serve a related, year-long term after her husband completes his sentence.