Gov. Timothy M. Kaine released this statement today in regards to the resignation of Esam Omeish, recent appointee to the Virginia Commission on Immigration.

I have accepted Dr. Esam Omeish's resignation as one of the 10 gubernatorial appointees to the 20-member Virginia Commission on Immigration. Dr. Omeish is a respected physician and community leader, yet I have been made aware of certain statements he has made which concern me. Dr. Omeish indicated that he did not want this controversy to distract from the important work of the Commission. I intend to name another representative of the Muslim community to the Commission in the near future.

Kaine faced questions about the appointee after a caller to Kaine's regular program on WRVA Richmond asked the governor about the Omeish appointment and online videos that identify Omeish as the speaker.

The Virginia Commission on Immigration was created this year as an advisory commission to analyze the current impact of immigration on the state. On Tuesday, the commission selected Sen. John C. Watkins (R-Chesterfield) as the chairman of the panel.

By washingtonpost.com editors  |  September 27, 2007; 1:57 PM ET
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