GOP prosecutor quitting after Edwards charges

RALEIGH, N.C. - The federal prosecutor who oversaw investigations into former presidential candidate John Edwards and former North Carolina Gov. Mike Easley is resigning.

Spokeswoman Robin Zier said Friday that U.S. Attorney George Holding is announcing his resignation, effective July 8.

Edwards was indicted a week ago. He says he is innocent. Easley earlier pleaded guilty to a felony in state court.

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Holding is a Republican nominated by former President George W. Bush. He stayed in his post as chief federal prosecutor in eastern North Carolina after Democrats took the White House to prevent any disruption in the Edwards and Easley cases.

The president has nominated Thomas Walker of Charlotte to succeed Holding. Walker is backed by both of North Carolina's senators.