Traficant was acquitted of the charges, becoming the only person ever to win a Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO) case while representing himself. Publicity from the RICO trial increased Traficant's local visibility. He was elected as a Democrat to Congress from Ohio's 17th District, defeating Lyle Williams, a three-term Republican incumbent. He was reelected eight times without serious opposition.
While in Congress, Traficant was a supporter of immigration reduction, and a strong opponent of illegal immigration. In the controversy surrounding the defeat of Congressman Bob Dornan (R-CA) by Democrat Loretta Sanchez, Traficant was the only Democratic member of Congress who advocated a new election, due to Dornan's allegations of voting in that race by undocumented immigrants (the allegations went unproven, and a new election was not held).
From the COMMENTS of the people:
- walkingeaglewoman:"The former congressman was KILLED because of this truth. MY GOD!:"
- David Gold:"Never said anything about the "Jewish people." Speaking only against the state, government and policy. Thanks for your service, Mr. Trafficant on behalf of Youngstown, OH and the broken heartland."
- JAY MIDDY:"The funny thing is the reporter is arguing with this guy. You have a congressman with a explosive story, a true whistle blower, and the news guy is arguing with him and telling him he doesn't believe him. I know who Trafficant is. He's a stand up guy. A straight shooter. The Truth teller straight talker way before Trump." - read more on the next page.