State Treasurer Andy Dillon Resigns
LANSING (WWJ/AP) - Michigan Treasurer Andy Dillon announced his resignation Friday, citing acrimony associated with his recent divorce that drew media attention.
Dillon, 51, said his family deserves privacy and residents deserve to know the state treasurer is "not distracted by such issues and events."
He said he would stay in the post for an unspecified length of time to assist with the transition to his successor.
"I have always considered it a privilege and honor to work on behalf of all Michigan residents and will look back fondly on my years of service in Lansing," said Dillon, who was heavily involved in efforts to turn around deficit-ridden cities and school districts.
His resignation comes just one day after he was called to testify under oath regarding Detroit's bankruptcy.
In July, Carol Dillon accused her ex-husband of assaulting her while drunk at her Redford Township home — but prosecutors said there was insufficient evidence to take the case to court. Andy Dillon's attorney, James Harrington, said the complaint was "without merit."
Dillon accused his wife of making threats and stealing his phone from a car the same day — but she denied it was a theft. Following the incident, the Dillons sought personal protection orders against each other; but a judge instead issued a restraining order.
Gov. Rick Snyder, Friday afternoon, issued the following statement regarding Dillon's resignation:
"It is with regret but understanding that I accept Andy's resignation. He has been instrumental in many of the comprehensive reforms that are contributing to Michigan's comeback. Andy has worked tirelessly on behalf of the people of Michigan, and we're a stronger state because of his dedication, expertise and leadership.
"We all can be proud of everything that Michigan has accomplished during the past three years. Working together, we've brought fairness and simplicity to Michigan's outdated tax system. We've worked collaboratively to help cities and schools deal with financial crises. His partnership with Detroit to assist in the city's turnaround is just one example of Andy's positive impact on Michigan. We've also worked with our local government partners to encourage greater service efficiencies that benefit taxpayers. A key reason for the success of these initiatives and others is Andy's commitment to Michigan's future. He embraced those challenges because he understands that these policies are critical to ensuring more and better jobs for families, and preparing our children for the exciting opportunities that lie ahead.
"Andy has demonstrated time and again that he was the right person at the right time to serve as treasurer. I respect his decision to seek new opportunities and offer my sincere gratitude for his years of selfless service to our state.
"I am pleased that Andy will remain available to assist the new treasurer with the transition. We are working to select a new treasurer and will share that announcement when the process is completed."
Dillon said he was "deeply committed" to the first-term governor and has "tremendous respect" for him.
Dillon, of Wayne County's Redford Township, lost his party's primary election for governor in 2010 to Lansing Mayor Virg Bernero. Bernero lost to Snyder, who quickly tabbed Dillon as state treasurer.
Dillon served in 1985 as an aide to U.S. Sen. Bill Bradley. He was a member of the Redford Planning commission from 1990 to 1992, and also served as a magistrate on the 17th District Court.
He was elected to the Michigan House in a 2004 special election. He also was House speaker beginning in 2007.
Dillon earned his law degree in 1988 from the University of Notre Dame. He worked as an attorney and later was managing director of Wynnchurch Capital from 2001 to 2004, and president of DSC Ltd.
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