The longest-serving U.S. senator in North Dakota will resign after a report revealed that the lawmaker exchanged text messages with a man imprisoned on charges of child pornography.
“The latest news has become a distraction for the important work of the legislature during its interim sessions,” said 79-year-old Republican Ray Holmberg in a statement announcing his resignation, effective June 1.
“I want to do what I can to reduce such distractions.”
Holmberg’s term was due to end on November 30, and he announced in March that it would be his last.
The Fargo Forum announced on April 15 that Holmberg exchanged 72 text messages in August with Nicholas James Morgan-Derosier.
Morgan-Derosier is behind bars on charges of possession of several thousand images and videos depicting sexually abused children. He is also accused of taking two children under the age of 10 from Minnesota to his home in Grand Forks with the intention of abusing them.
Holmberg, whose political career spans 46 years, initially told the newspaper he had read about the allegations before saying in a later interview that he did not, according to the Forum.
North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgham said in a statement that he “supported” Holmberg’s decision to resign. Mike McCleary / The Bismarck Tribune via AP
He said the lyrics were about “different things”, including the courtyard work Morgan-Dossier had done for him. He told the newspaper that there were no more texts.
“They just left,” he said.
Holmberg has not been charged with a crime, and his lawyer, Mark Friese, has said there are no indications that he will be charged.
Republican Gov. Doug Burgham said in a statement that he “supported” Holmberg’s decision to resign without comment.
Senate Majority Leader Rich Wardner said he spoke with Holmberg before announcing his resignation.
“No charges have been filed against Sen. so far. “Holmberg … he thinks it is in his best interest to resign at this time,” Wardner told the Associated Press.
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