Steve Neavling
ticklethewire.com
A popular Rhode Island state lawmaker is resigning from his leadership role and won’t run for re-election after the FBI raided his home and public office, the Associated Press reports.
Gordon Fox, a 52-year-old Democrat who has been House speaker since 2010, said he will step down from his leadership post but will serve out the remainder of his term.
“My personal focus going forward will be on my family and dealing with the investigation,” Fox said.
Fox became the nation’s first openly gay House speaker.
‘‘Because of the respect I have for all members of the House of Representatives, I am resigning as Speaker,’’ Fox said in a written statement emailed to reporters. ‘‘The process of governing must continue and the transition of leadership must be conducted in an orderly manner.’’
