I would give him, and any other, loyalty if they deserve it. He has shown on anumber of occasions that he doesn't deserve it. I supported him when he did the right thing, like his recent plan to militarize the US borders, and the call to investigate Chinese PLA investment.
What would you do if you are forced out over a bogus charge ? where is your pride and honour?
Pride is not always a positive,and the honorable thing to do in this case would be to give the leadership position to someone else, while still retaining one's seat--hopefully ending the media perpetuated firestorm. I would have never have put myself in this position... But, if forced to apologize for innocent, yet "controversial" remarks, I , as a leader, would fight back with a ferocity never before seen by a conservative, and hopefully my fellow Republicans would join me...I would counterattack--bringing up Byrd, Jackson, Sharpton, Carl Levin's remarks...I would go on every talk radio/TV political program...I would enlist my friends in the media to stand up against the obvious double-standard witch hunt taking place, and I wouldn't make it worse by apologizing or backtracking.
I see the day when someone will have the nerve to fight fire with fire. In this case, however, it would not be appropriate. He needs to relinquish his leadership, but not his seat. This does not need to be immediate--he can do this a month from now. He could still have power if he craves it that much. But after what he just pulled, he doesn't deserve it, IMO.