N.C. House votes to expel Wright

RALEIGH (AP) - The state House has voted to remove Rep. Thomas Wright from office for ethical misconduct, the first such expulsion of a legislator from North Carolina's General Assembly in 128 years.

The House voted 109-5 today in favor of booting the Wilmington Democrat, who is accused of mishandling or hiding about $340,000 in loans and campaign and charitable contributions. At least 80 votes were needed to expel him.

Wright has denied wrongdoing and called the proceedings a rush to judgment by his peers. He faces a criminal trial on similar allegations later this month.

Wright was escorted from the chamber by the House sergeant at arms after the vote. His attorney later promised to file a legal challenge to the House's action.