Former Los Angeles City Councilwoman Nury Martinez announced her resignation Wednesday after calls to do so from local officials and even President Joe Biden.

Martinez released a 921-word resignation statement, that did not address her comments from the leaked audio conversation that caused an uproar, but instead thanked her staff, fellow councilmembers and the city.

Since making her announcement, there have been quick responses from city councilmembers, Mayor Eric Garcetti and even Governor Gavin Newsom.

The former Councilwoman’s decision to step down has led to the continued call for Councilmembers Kevin de León and Gil Cedillo to follow.

Mayor Eric Garcetti

“Nury made the right decision, one that I realize is painful to her personally but unquestionably in the best interests of a city that I know she loves.

“Racism and hateful words cannot ever be overlooked by our community or within one’s self, and she needs the time and space to reflect, make amends, and move forward with her life.

“Her two former colleagues must arrive at the same decision soon, because Angelenos deserve a government focused squarely on meeting challenges in their neighborhoods that are too serious to risk a paralyzed City Council.”

Governor Gavin Newsom

“This is the right move. Again, these comments have no place in our state, or in our politics, and we must all model better behavior to live the values that so many of us fight every day to protect.”

Acting L.A. City Council President Mitch O’Farrell

“For Los Angeles to heal, and for its City Council to govern, there must be accountability. The resignation of Councilmember Nury Martinez is the first, necessary step in that process. To that end, I repeat my call on Councilmembers de León and Cedillo to also resign. There is no other way forward.”

Councilwoman Monica Rodriguez

“I thank Nury for making the difficult, but right decision to resign. I ask my colleagues Mr. Cedillo and Mr. de León to follow that lead so our city may begin the process of healing.”

Councilman Curren D. Price Jr.

“Nury Martinez has finally announced her resignation, signaling the beginning of the end of this nightmare that she along with Kevin de León and Gil Cedillo created for our City. This sad chapter has left a permanent stain on our City Council, forever changing the face of LA politics.

“Their abhorrent actions have cut deep into the hearts and soul of Los Angeles. It is unforgivable and the damage they have done is reprehensible. This is a time of reckoning, reflection and most importantly action.

“But this is not enough. In order for us to govern and handle the people’s business, we will need Kevin and Gil to listen to their conscience, own their mistakes and do what’s morally right. Only then can we embark on the road toward healing the City.”

Councilman Paul Koretz

“Having been one of the first councilmembers to call for Councilmember Nury Martinez to resign, I know she did the right thing today. Now it’s time for Councilmembers de León and Cedillo to follow suit so we can begin the healing process in the city.”

Councilman Marqueece Harris-Dawson

“Gil and Kevin follow Nury’s lead. We’re waiting.”

BLM-LA

“2 down. 2 to go! #byenury”

 

-30-

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Advertising disclosure: We may receive compensation for some of the links in our stories. Thank you for supporting LA Weekly and our advertisers.