Update to this story.
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.”