Byrd Agrees to Step down as Appropriations Chair

After renewed questions about his ability to continue in the post, Sen. Robert C. Byrd announced plans Friday to relinquish the reins of the powerful Appropriations Committee in January, The Associated Press reports.

The Charleston Gazette was first with the story, while Politico also has coverage. AP reports separately on the reaction by state political leaders.

Update: Byrd's planned departure as chairman has set off a chain reaction of Senate committee changes, and could likely land Sen. Jay Rockefeller, D-W.Va., atop the influential Commerce Committee, AP reports.