North Dakota Republicans call for Nico Rios’ resignation after DUI and racist, homophobic rant

GOP leaders in North Dakota are calling for the resignation of state Rep. Nico Rios (R-Williston) after the Bismark Tribune released bodycam video of the lawmaker’s Dec. 15 arrest for drunk driving.

North Dakota House Majority Leader Mike Lefor made a statement calling for Rios’ resignation not only for his offensive language towards police, but also attempting to use his position in the state government to avoid arrest.

“There is no room in the legislature, or our party, for this behavior,” Lefor said. “I understand people make mistakes, but his comments and defiance to law enforcement are beyond the pale. In addition, any lawmaker attempting to use his or her elected position to threaten anyone or skirt the law is completely unacceptable.”

In the video, Rios launches into a homophobic and racist rant, and he can be heard calling a police officer a “F—ing f—-t” while berating the officer for his English heritage. Rios also criticized the officer for arresting him while migrants “come into your country and rape your women.” Rios also attempted to use his status as a state lawmaker to avoid arrest.

NEW VIDEO: ND State Rep. Nico Rios (R) unleased a racist and homophobic rant at police during his DUI arrest, calling an officer a “f–king f–got,” ranting about migrants destroying England, and threatening to call the Attorney General.

Video first released by @bistrib. pic.twitter.com/nWnbgqPUb5

— Heartland Signal (@HeartlandSignal) December 23, 2023

Rios took office in January after being elected in 2022. He currently sits on the House Judiciary Committee, which oversees law enforcement legislation.