North Dakota House Majority Leader calls for member's resignation

(Bismarck, ND) — North Dakota State Majority Leader Mike Lefor (R-Dickinson) and the North Dakota is calling for the resignation of a North Dakota State House member following comments made during a recent DUI arrest.

North Dakota State Representative Nico Rios (R-Williston) made comments after being arrested for DUI which were described by law enforcement as “verbally abusive, homophobic, racially abusive and discriminatory.” Rios also attempted to use his position as a state lawmaker to intimidate police and avoid an arrest.

“I am extremely disappointed in Rep. Rios’ actions. After discussions with House leadership and the state Republican Party, I have asked for his resignation. There is no room in the legislature, or our party, for this behavior. I understand people make mistakes, but his comments and defiance to law enforcement are beyond the pale. In addition, any lawmaker attempting to use his or her elected position to threaten anyone or skirt the law is completely unacceptable,” said Leader Lefor.

WDAY Radio reached out to Rios for comment on this story.