1 hour, 18 minutes ago
By DIANE SCARPONI, Associated Press Writer
NEW HAVEN, Conn. - Once a GOP rising star, Gov. John G. Rowland is stepping down amid swirling corruption allegations, giving both Republicans and Democrats hope that they can somehow emerge stronger from the long-brewing scandal.
In a short speech Monday that barely touched on his legal difficulties, Rowland said he would leave office next week. He becomes the first U.S. governor in seven years to resign under pressure.
Democrats hope Rowland's resignation will give them a better chance to reclaim the governor's office in 2006, while Republicans hope Rowland's departure came soon enough to give the party a chance to rebuild.
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