By AP/KWMU
Washington, D.C. – Missouri Congressman Roy Blunt will replace Tom DeLay as House majority leader for the time being.
Blunt has held the number three slot in the House leadership, as Republican whip.
He was named to the top post hours after DeLay was indicted in Texas in an alleged campaign finance scheme.
Blunt, whose son is Governor Matt Blunt, voiced his support for DeLay. And said his leadership role is only temporary.
I think largely because of his effectiveness as a leader he became a target, Blunt said. We all believe that he'll return once this indictment is out of the way to be the leader again. That's what our rules call for.
Blunt says DeLay's indictment is unfair. And he says DeLay will continue to be an important House member.