California Republican Randy Cunningham resigns from the U.S. House

Just in:

U.S. Rep. Randy "Duke" Cunningham, a California Republican, resigned on Monday after pleading guilty to taking $2.4 million in bribes in exchange for help in securing Defense Department contracts.

Cunningham, 63, an eight-term congressman and decorated Vietnam War veteran, had been under federal investigation for his ties to Washington-based defense contractor MZM Inc. since the summer.

"I am resigning from the House of Representatives because I've compromised the trust of my constituents," Cunningham said after the court hearing.

Don't let the door hit you on the way out, Randy. Our candidate to replace this corrupt Republican is Francine Busby.

UPDATE: Washington Post has some more information:

Eight Republican candidates were already running to replace Cunningham next year, while 2004 nominee Francine Busby is the lone Democrat running. With the race turning from an open seat to a special election, candidates who had either ruled a run out or not previously considered it may decide to join.