Amid allegations of bullying and intimidation, the Nuclear regulatory Commission's Chairman, Gregory Jaczko has announced his resignation from the commission.

Saying in a written statement this morning that it was the right time to step down, Jaczko did not mention the allegations against his behavior. “After nearly eight years on the Commission, I am announcing my resignation as Chairman of the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, effective upon the confirmation of my successor. My responsibility and commitment to safety will continue to be my paramount priority after I leave the Commission and until my successor is confirmed,” he said.

The five commmissioners oversee the nation’s 104 commercial nuclear reactors. The four other members of the commission submitted a letter to the Whitehouse in October expressing concerns about Jaczko in October of last year. They stated that Jaczko actions were “causing serious damage” and felt that his actions could adversly affect the safety of the nations nuclear reactors.

A report released last year by the Inspector General stated that Jaczko intimidated staff members who disagreed with him and withheld information from members of the commission to manipulate their decisions on critical votes.

Appreciation for his service was voiced by the Whitehouse’s spokeman Clark Stevens, Stevens continued by stating, “A strong and effective NRC is crucial to protecting public health and safety, promoting defense and security, and protecting the environment, and we intend to nominate a new chairman soon.”

Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid made a statement in response. “I am confident whomever replaces Chairman Jaczko will share his commitment to protecting the safety of the American people over the interests of a single industry. This is an opportunity for the nuclear industry to demonstrate its commitment to public safety by supporting a Chairperson who puts the safety of American citizens first,” Reid said.

Alaska’s Republican Senator, Lisa Murkowski, who is the top Republican on the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, released a statement in response to Jaczko’s resignation.

“Chairman Jaczko’s resignation is essential to restoring the NRC’s reputation and effectiveness. Given the Inspector General’s previous findings, the unprecedented letter of concern about his management style and treatment of career employees by the entire bipartisan commission, and the fact that a second report from the Inspector General is expected soon – Jaczko’s resignation is both long overdue and unsurprising.

“The important thing now is for the Senate to receive a qualified nominee to replace Chairman Jaczko and to confirm him or her, as well as Commissioner Kristine Svinicki, in a timely manner to ensure that the NRC can function effectively. It’s important that Jaczko’s replacement be of the highest professional caliber and moral character.”