Department of Natural Resources Commissioner Dan Sullivan's resignation was accepted by Governor Parnell on Thursday it was announced by the Governor's office.

Dan Sullivan formerly served as the state’s Attorney General from June 2009 until December 2010 when he was then named to the Department of Natural Resources post by the Governor.

“In his role as attorney general and DNR commissioner, Dan has played a key role in getting big things done to strengthen Alaska’s economy and families,” Governor Parnell said. “As attorney general, Dan played a major role in the Choose Respect initiative and fought hard against federal overreach. During his tenure as commissioner, Dan led the state’s efforts in resource development and permitting reform, and worked to resolve Pt. Thomson litigation – setting the stage for a natural gas pipeline.

“Dan has been an instrumental part of my administration and his leadership will be missed. I wish him much success in the future.”

Sullivan resigned his position as commissioner and appears to be preparing to take part in a three-way Republican primary race for the Republican candidate for the U.S. Senate against current Senator, Democrat Mark Begich. He will tentatively join Lt Governor Mead Treadwell, who officially launched his campaign on Thursday, and Joe Miller. Miller failed at his bid for a seat in the U.S. Senate against Lisa Murkowski in 2010.

Sullivan returned from six weeks in Afghanistan where he was on duty in the Marine Reserves as an executive officer of the 4th Marine Division’s Anti-Terrorism Battalion.

In his resignation letter to the governor, Sullivan stated, “As I explore new opportunities and challenges in the next phase of my life, I intend to seek ways to continue to serve my fellow Alaskans.”

Sullivan’s resignation is effective on September 24th. His resignation letter can be viewed here on the Governor’s site.