New Mexico Sen. Phil Griego has resigned. The Democratic senator handed in his letter of resignation Saturday to Secretary of State Diana Duran's office as well as the chief clerk of the Senate. In the letter, Griego says he has decided to step down effective immediately.
Griego says the action is necessary "to avoid a major distraction to the important work that needs to be accomplished for the families and children throughout the state of New Mexico."
Griego has drawn scrutiny for a real estate deal involving a state-owned building in Santa Fe.
Griego was one of several lawmakers who approved the sale of the building. The buyer ended up hiring Griego to manage the sale.
Critics say it was unethical for him to profit from a legislative action.
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