He faces criminal charges related to an alleged illegal stock - swap deal . The three-judge panel said the lawmaker 's actions were not protected by the Constitution 's `` speech and debate '' clause . He says clause in constitution protects him from legal action . Federal appeals court says ` ` speech and debate '' clause does not apply .
He faces criminal charges related to an alleged illegal stock - swap deal . He says clause in constitution protects him from legal action . Federal appeals court says ` ` speech and debate '' clause does not apply .