FARGO (KFGO) – North Dakota Republican House Majority Leader Mike Lefor (R-Dickinson) has called for the resignation of fellow Republican Rep. Nico Rios (R-Williston) following comments made by Rios during a recent DUI arrest in Williston.
The comments were described by law enforcement as “verbally abusive, homophobic, racially abusive, and discriminatory.”
Police body camera video shows Rios also attempted to use his position as a lawmaker to intimidate police and avoid an arrest.
In a statement, Lefor wrote: “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.”
The North Dakota Republican Party agreed with Lefor’s position calling for Rios to resign.
In another statement, North Dakota Republican Party Chairwoman Sandra Sanford wrote: “Rep. Rios’ actions and words fall short of the basic decency we expect from any of our neighbors. He endangered the community he was elected to serve and disrespected peace officers. This violates our core values as Republicans. I support the House Leader’s decision to call for his resignation.”
In his statement in response to the incident, Rios apologized to the people of North Dakota’s 23rd District and stated he had a, “few too many drinks at a Christmas party,” and received a DUI.
Rios did not mention any verbal altercation with the arresting officer in his statement.
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