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Calls Grow for Dem Mayor’s Resignation

Washington, D.C. councilmen have joined the chorus of residents calling for Mayor Vincent Gray’s head.

Federal prosecutors found that Gray's supporters allegedly amassed a secret, illegal $650,000 war chest to boost his electoral chances in 2010, according to the Washington Examiner:

"Whether he knew or not about the shadow campaign, the time has come for the mayor to step down," [At-Large Councilman David Catania] told The Washington Examiner. "We know that his campaign engaged in a criminal conspiracy to undermine the election laws of our city, calling into question the legitimacy of the election and his legitimacy as mayor."

Ward 3 Councilwoman Mary Cheh quickly issued a similar call.

And Ward 4 Councilwoman Muriel Bowser, thought to be a potential candidate for mayor in the future, also said Gray needed to go.

"Whether or not he knew of the massive election fraud that was taking place in his name, he is responsible for it," Cheh said.

Gray is accused of using the money to expand campaign operations and hire more personnel, including day laborers, the Associated Press reports:

Three people who worked on the Gray campaign told the AP they paid day laborers up to $100 in cash to hold signs and distribute literature outside polling places.

Gray has repeatedly denied wrongdoing and said that he will not step down. Prosecutors have yet to file charges.