The Nation - News from Sept. 15, 1988

House Speaker Jim Wright (D-Tex.) spent more than five hours giving closed-door testimony to the House Ethics Committee, offering his defense against allegations that he abused his office for personal gain and improperly intervened with various government officials on behalf of business associates and constituents. Wright, who has sought an appearance before the panel almost since the beginning of its inquiry in June, told reporters afterward that he expects to be absolved of any wrongdoing and believes the committee can complete its investigation before the 100th Congress adjourns next month.