Lieutenant Governor of Alaska Byron Mallott has abruptly resigned over making 'inappropriate comments' directed toward women.

Governor Bill Walker said in a statement that he learned late Monday about the comments 'that do not reflect the sterling level of behavior required in his role as Lieutenant Governor.'

Mallott took full responsibility and apologized in his resignation letter Tuesday, prompting State Health Commissioner Valerie Davidson to be sworn in as lieutenant governor effective immediately.

The move comes just three weeks before what was already a difficult re-election fight for Gov Bill Walker - a man with whom Mallott shared a brother-like bond.

Lieutenant Governor of Alaska Byron Mallott abruptly resigned Tuesday for making'inappropriate comments' directed toward women Sunday

Governor Bill Walker said he learned of Mallott making an 'inappropriate overture' late Monday night

Mallott and Walker have shared a close bond since joining forces as part of a 'unity ticket' in 2014. Walker is an independent, while Mallott is a Democrat.

Walker said Mallott made an 'inappropriate overture' Sunday but details of exactly what was said have not been released.

New Lt Governor Davidson said in a statement that 'Alaskans deserve the highest standard of conduct from their elected officials.

'While I am deeply saddened by the resignation of Lt Governor Byron Mallott, I am profoundly disappointed by his conduct.'

She added: 'Respect for woman, and the dignity of all Alaskans, is our responsibility.'

The announcement of his resignation was announced shortly after Walker participated in a debate in Anchorage.

Mallot's name will remain on the ticket, despite his resignation, because the ballot had already been certified and printed.

Under Alaskan law, candidates must withdraw at least 64 days before the election.

Mallott took full responsibility and apologized in his resignation letter Tuesday. His name will still appear on the ballot, despite his resignation

Health Commissioner Valerie Davidson was sworn in effect immediately Tuesday

This comes amid a contentious re-election fight for Gov Walker (left), with whom Mallott shared a brother-like bond

Walker has been locked in a tough re-election fight with Democrat Mark Begich and Republican Mike Dunleavy

The campaign manager for Walker says the campaign has been in talks with Democrat Mark Begich about a 'path forward' for the state.

John-Henry Heckendorn said Tuesday the talks so far have been inconclusive but will continue.

Mallott's sudden departure is a shocking blow to a ticket that began of political necessity in 2014 but grew into a partnership born of respect and trust.

Walker and Mallott, both running for governor in 2014, decided their best shot at defeating Republican Gov Sean Parnell was to join forces.

As part of that arrangement, backed by state Democrats, Walker changed his party affiliation from Republican to undeclared and Mallott, an Alaska Native leader and Democrat, ran as Walker's lieutenant governor. They won.