Minnesota Republican state senator Justin Eichorn resigned on Thursday after being charged with soliciting a minor for prostitution in a sting operation.

Eichorn, 40, of Grand Rapids, submitted his resignation in a brief email to Governor Tim Walz, citing personal matters.

His resignation came before the Senate could vote on expelling him.

Senate Minority Leader Mark Johnson expressed relief, emphasizing the need to focus on pressing state issues.

Eichorn has been jailed since his arrest on Monday and was ordered to be released to a halfway house with GPS monitoring after his court appearance, the Associated Press has reported.

His next court hearing is set for Wednesday.

Written by B.C. Begley