Nominee Steps Down After Controversial Texts Reveal

Paul Ingrassia withdrew his nomination to lead the Office of Special Counsel after offensive text messages surfaced, causing backlash among GOP senators. Scheduled for a confirmation hearing, the nominee lost crucial support, including from Trump's conservative Senate allies, leading to his decision to step down.

Paul Ingrassia, President Donald Trump's nominee for the Office of Special Counsel, withdrew from consideration following the revelation of offensive text messages. The development caused a rebellion among Republican senators.

Ingrassia was slated for a confirmation hearing but faced staunch opposition from conservative senators once the texts were revealed. This opposition included some of the Senate's firmest Trump supporters.

In an online statement, Ingrassia announced, "I will be withdrawing myself from Thursday's HSGAC hearing to lead the Office of Special Counsel because unfortunately I do not have enough Republican votes at this time."

(With inputs from agencies.)