Rep. Chaka Fattah resigned his congressional seat on Thursday, effective immediately, following his conviction on federal corruption charges.  

Fattah had sought to remain in the House until his sentencing in October, but a number of House leaders, including Speaker Paul D. Ryan, objected.  

“Out of respect to the entire House leadership and so as not to cause a distraction from the House’s work of the people, I have changed my effective date,” his letter said.  

On Wednesday, House Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy’s office erroneously sent a statement saying the House had expelled Fattah. The release was recalled.  

Fattah, 59, was found guilty of corruption on Tuesday by a federal jury following a four-week trial in Philadelphia.  

Prosecutors alleged the Pennsylvania Democrat took bribes and stole charitable donations and campaign contributions as well as misused federal grant money under his control.    

The case largely centered around a $1 million campaign loan during an unsuccessful mayoral bid in 2007.  

Fattah lost his primary in April.  

Contact Garcia at EricGarcia@cqrollcall.com and follow him on Twitter @EricMGarcia.