Critics of state Senator Troy Brown are applauding his decision to resign from the Senate in advance of a disciplinary hearing next week.
Brown was facing potential expulsion from the body after he twice pleaded "no contest" to domestic battery charges stemming from incidents involving a girlfriend and his wife.
The Democrat from Napoleonville announced Thursday that he made the decision with "profound sadness" but quit because he realized his fate was sealed.
"It is readily apparent to me that the fair and impartial hearing before my peers will not transpire," Brown said.
Until Thursday, Brown had consistently resisted calls for his resignation from many of his colleagues in Baton Rouge.
Senator J.P. Morrell of New Orleans who had urged Brown to step down said, "Senator Brown's resignation allows the Senate to focus on the primary purpose of the special session, which is repairing a $304 million shortfall in our current budget. Also, it brings closure to thousands of victims of domestic violence who have followed this process. The Louisiana State Senate stands with victims of domestic violence and is committed to protecting those without a voice."
State Representative Helena Moreno also had urged Brown to resign.
"I am pleased that Senators showed true leadership by overwhelmingly sending the message to Mr. Brown that family violence and violence against women are very serious crimes. Crimes so serious, that his expulsion was eminent. Domestic violence should never be acceptable or dismissed. Many of us are hoping that Mr. Brown can now take the time to get the help he needs," Moreno said.