NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) — State Rep. Jeremy Durham resigned from his caucus position as majority whip on Sunday afternoon.

Durham said he will continue to focus on the concerns of his district and the state.

“By stepping aside, it is my hope that the Caucus, the Legislature and perhaps even the media can avoid further distractions and return their attention to the important issues that impact the lives of our fellow Tennesseans.

House Majority Leader Gerald McCormick accepted the resignation of Durham.

“I believe he has made a good decision to prevent this issue from continuing to be a distraction to our Caucus. We will hold a Caucus meeting in the near future to elect a new House Majority Whip.”

His statement read, in full:

Today I have advised Speaker Beth Harwell, Majority Leader Gerald McCormick and Caucus Chair Glen Casada that I am resigning my Caucus position as Majority Whip. I appreciate the support shown for me by my colleagues during the recent Caucus meeting that resulted in my retaining my position as a Caucus leader. However, it is clear that the relentless media-driven agenda against me will continue. This targeted media campaign continues to distract our Caucus and the Legislature from focusing on the serious work that needs to be done over the next few months. Stepping aside from my leadership position should put an end to my role in the distraction. I will continue to focus on the concerns of my legislative district and the State of Tennessee, lead the fight on conservative issues, and aggressively pursue re-election. By stepping aside, it is my hope that the Caucus, the Legislature, and perhaps even the media can avoid any further distractions and return their attention to the important issues that impact the lives of our fellow Tennesseans.

There was a short period of confusion after the announcement was made when a tweet was posted on Durham’s Twitter account that disputed the resignation.

The tweet was later removed, and a second release confirming his resignation was sent out.

“I have spoken with Representative Durham throughout the day. I have thanked him for his service to the Caucus and believe his decision to step down from his position as Majority Whip was the mature thing to do,” said State Representative Glen Casada (R-Thompson Station).