Updated: Hamilton resigns from House of Delegates

Del. Phil Hamilton, the powerful Republican lawmaker under federal investigation, resigned from the House of Delegates effective midnight yesterday.

Hamilton of Newport News sent a two-sentence letter to House Clerk Bruce Jamerson that was received today.

"Effective at the end of the day on November 15, 2009, I am resignining from the position as Delegate of the 93rd House District,'' he wrote. "It has been an honor and a privilege to serve in, what I consider to be, the most distinguished legislative body in the world."

Hamilton lost his bid for re-election two weeks ago to Democrat Robin Abbott. He had served in the House for 21 years and was vice chairman of the House Appropriations Committee.

Hamilton is under investigation for negotiating a job offer with Old Dominion University before securing state money for the school. A federal grand jury recently served the Newport News school system and ODU with subpoenas and search warrants.

The federal investigation continues, but it's unlikely that the House's internal inquiry into Hamilton's actions will proceed.