Anchorage Mayor Resigns Over Sex Scandal

Anchorage, Alaska, Mayor Ethan Berkowitz resigned Tuesday, a day after apologizing for what he described as a “consensual, inappropriate messaging relationship,” with a local television anchor.

Berkowitz, 58, who is married, announced his resignation in a statement read by his chief of staff during a meeting of the Anchorage Assembly. The Democrat will remain mayor until Oct. 23 at 6 p.m.

“It is with profound sadness and humility that I resign as Mayor of the Municipality of Anchorage,” the statement said, according to the Anchorage Daily News. “My resignation results from unacceptable personal conduct that has compromised my ability to perform my duties with the focus and trust that is required.” . . .

“I apologize to the people of Anchorage for a major lapse in judgment I made several years ago when I had a consensual, inappropriate messaging relationship with reporter Maria Athens,” Berkowitz wrote in a statement. “I’m embarrassed and ashamed for the hurt I’ve caused my family and our community. I take responsibility for my actions.”

Athens, 41, had posted allegations against Berkowitz on social media Friday, plus a nude photo that she claimed showed the mayor’s backside. (Read more from “Anchorage Mayor Resigns Over Sex Scandal” HERE)

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