Idaho Republican Larry Craig resigned Saturday from the U.S. Senate in the wake of a sex scandal that caused party leaders to ostracize him.

“It is with sadness and deep regret that I announce it is my intent to resign from the Senate Sept. 30,” said Craig in a news conference in Boise.

“In doing so, I hope to allow a smooth and orderly transition of my loyal staff and of the person appointed to take my place,” he continued.

Idaho Gov. C.L. Otter attended the news conference but did not immediately name a replacement for the remaining 15 months of Craig’s term in the Senate. (more . . )