Congress: Gray Bows Out

Gray Bows Out

During six terms as a Congressman from Philadelphia, William H. Gray ascended to the most prominent House leadership post ever held by a black: Democratic ! whip. In time, Capitol Hill insiders speculated, he could have become Speaker. Last week Gray flabbergasted both rivals and supporters by resigning from Congress to become head of the United Negro College Fund.

Gray stressed that he was leaving to devote more time to his family and the Philadelphia church that he pastors. Since few people in Washington ever voluntarily abandon a powerful position, his hasty departure sparked speculation about his real motives. He declined...

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