It's official. WSBT first told you longtime St. Joseph County Democratic Chair Butch Morgan had resigned in the wake of possible voter registration fraud.
But, there was some confusion over whether in fact Morgan did resign, until shortly before 10 p.m. Monday when confirmation of Morgan's resignation came from his attorney.
Earlier Monday night, Morgan’s attorney told WSBT he was considering a leave of absence, not a resignation.
That was after Indiana State Democratic Chairman Dan Parker sent WSBT an email stating Morgan resigned effective at 6 p.m. Monday.
Morgan's resignation comes as the St. Joseph County Prosecutor investigates the local Democratic Party for possible voter registration fraud.
A South Bend Tribune and Howey Politics investigation revealed fake signatures on petitions in 2008 to get Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton's names on Indiana's primary ballot.
Morgan maintains he has done nothing wrong and says the ongoing investigation will clear him.
SomeRepublicans recently called for his resignation, saying he knew about the fake signatures.
Morgan also resigned as the Democratic Chair for the 2nd Congressional District. Morgan took over as county party chairman in 1995.
Full statement released by Morgan’s attorney:
"While Butch was considering various options until late this evening that included a “leave of absence,” he has concluded after conferring with state party that remaining on in any capacity would be an unwanted distraction for candidates in the upcoming city elections.
"Accordingly, he has just issued a formal letter of resignation tonight as both district chairman and county chairman.
"Butch Morgan has done nothing wrong and did not personally authorize, direct or condone the forgery or alteration of petition signatures.
"Furthermore, he intends to vigorously oppose any claim of wrongdoing but does not want this ongoing controversy to hurt the party that he cares so much about."
