A judge in Texas dismissed one charge against Rep. Tom DeLay (R-Texas) but let stand two more serious charges of money laundering and conspiracy to money launder.

The decision means DeLay will go to trial next year for allegedly injecting corporate money into state elections in violation of state law. He is accused of using Republican political action committees to funnel corporate money to Republican candidates.

The decision also means DeLay can't reclaim his post as House majority leader since he remains under indictment. He says he will be exonerated of the charges.

DeLay once described himself as a "close friend" of disgraced lobbyist Jack Abramoff. DeLay is being looked at as part of the Department of Justice's criminal investigation of Abramoff, according to news reports.

Get the Story:
Money-laundering charge stands (The Hill 12/6)
DeLay's Felony Charge Is Upheld (The Washington Post 12/6)
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Texas Judge Lets Stand 2 of 3 Charges Against DeLay (The New York Times 12/6)
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Relevant Links:
Rep. Tom DeLay - http://tomdelay.house.gov

Related Stories:
McCain expects 'lots' of indictments in Abramoff case (12/05)
Abramoff probe spreads to members of Congress (11/28)
Abramoff used charity to raise money for DeLay (11/04)
DeLay staff helped Abramoff gain access to Norton (11/03)
DeLay booked, photographed on arrest warrant (10/21)
Texas court issues arrest warrant for DeLay (10/20)
Mississippi Choctaws gave to DeLay's party fund (10/18)
DeLay's shifting of campaign funds under scrutiny (10/07)
DeLay indicted on money laundering charges (10/4)
DeLay steps aside after being indicted in Texas (9/29)
Hayworth targeted for ties to Abramoff, DeLay (7/4)
Hayworth predicts DeLay will weather ethics storm (3/15)
Tribe, gambling firm funded DeLay's overseas trip (3/14)
DeLay rebuked yet again for flaunting influence (10/7)
DeLay rebuked for trading influence on House floor (10/1)