The Congressman who authored legislation to bar students with past drug convictions from getting federal education aid has resigned after admitting to an extramarital affair with a married staff member.

The New York Times reported May 18 that Rep. Mark Souder (R-Ind.), who recently won a tough primary battle, announced that he would resign on Friday. “I sinned against God, my wife and my family by having a mutual relationship with a part-time member of my staff,” said Souder, 59.

In addition to being a leading advocate for tough drug penalties, Souder was known as a backer of abstinence education. He had been known in Congress as a staunch conservative and proponent of traditional family values.