Nashua Representative-elect Stacie Laughton says she will resign. In November, she was elected to represent Hillsborough County House District 31.WMUR reports that the decision was prompted by a state law forbidding felons from holding public office until the felon is discharged.
In 2008, Laughton was sentenced for conspiring to commit credit card fraud, and falsifying evidence. After four months, her sentence was suspended pending ten years of good behavior, the Laconia Daily Sun reports.
Laughton gained national attention as the first openly transgender person to win an election in the country.
When news of her past broke earlier this week, Republicans including the outgoing House Majority leader and the state committee chairman called for Laughton’s resignation.
In a statement, Democratic party chairman Ray Buckley said he respects Laughton’s decision not to be seated in the New Hampshire House.
As of Wednesday, however, it appears Laughton may be reconsidering. In a post on her Facebook page, Laughton reaches out to friends, telling them she is still exploring whether she can legally serve as a state representative.
"Keep in mind I have said that I would on TV," Laughton wrote. "I have the letter in hand all I have to do is sign it and send it to the State."
