Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke said that the investigations into whether he used his position for personal gain created a distraction to the point where he feels he is unable to serve effectively.
Zinke said “vicious and politically motivated attacks” against him had “created an unfortunate distraction” in fulfilling the agency’s mission, according to the resignation letter dated Saturday obtained by the Associated Press.
The secretary of the Interior is facing federal investigations related to his travel, political activity, and potential conflicts of interest.
Zinke maintains his innocence and continues to fight the allegations of any wrongdoing.
In his resignation letter, Zinke also called the attacks “meritless and false claims,” saying that “to some, truth no longer matters.”
President Trump announced Zinke’s departure in a tweet Saturday, adding that he would announce Zinke’s replacement at the Department of Interior next week. Interior secretary nominations require Senate confirmation.
Zinke’s departure comes as the new class of congressmen will be sworn in, where Democrats will take back a majority in the House, which could make him more vulnerable to the investigations.
The announcement of Zinke’s departure comes a week after Trump disclosed that White House chief of staff John Kelly would be leaving his post at the end of the year. Kelly’s departure comes after reports his relationship with Trump had soured and the two were no longer on speaking terms.
