First-term state representative resigns, citing vitriol in Capitol

State Rep. Said Sharbini, a Brighton Democrat, is resigning just a year into his term, he said Monday — making him the second freshman lawmaker to quit this month.

Sharbini cited the political “vitriol” at the Capitol and low pay for the long hours required of lawmakers. Legislators whose terms began in January, including Sharbini, receive about $43,000 a year.

The job, while part-time, has demanding hours during the 120- day legislative session in the winter and spring, when the most visible work happens, often running late into the night and into weekends.

“The compensation offered for the responsibilities and commitments of this role has not been commensurate with the cost of living and my family’s financial needs,” Sharbini, an attorney, wrote in his resignation letter, adding that financial strain is common among lawmakers. “… Representation is held by those with the means to sustain themselves, and that has quickly become something I can no longer do.”

He said the salary factor was his primary reason for leaving, but the environment at the Capitol “has become characterized by vitriol and a lack of collegial behavior.”

“The polarized and contentious atmosphere has hindered constructive dialogue,” Sharbini wrote. “This has made it increasingly challenging to effectively serve the constituents and fulfill the duties of this esteemed office.”

That echoes language used by former state Rep. Ruby Dickson when she tendered her resignation at the beginning of the month.

Democrats hold a supermajority in the state House, and tensions have run high both within the caucus and in f loor debates with the Republican minority. In a statement, Speaker Julie McCluskie, a Dillon Democrat, did not address the conditions Sharbini cited but praised his work. Neither Mccluskie nor Sharbini returned messages seeking further comment.

Sharbini’s resignation will take effect at the end of the year. A party vacancy committee will fill his seat until voters elect a representative in the November election.