Top Minnesota Union Leader Under Investigation

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) — One of Minnesota's most influential public employee unions is seeking a new leader after its executive director resigned amid an investigation.

The American Federation of State County and Municipal Employees Council 5 said in a statement that John Westmoreland stepped down Wednesday.

Union officials have declined to detail the investigation. Westmoreland, who had led the union since 2017, was placed on leave in August.

Westmoreland couldn't be reached for comment.

Longtime labor official Pete Benner said Thursday that the union's board selected Julie Bleyhl as interim executive director. He says she will lead the search for a permanent executive director.

Bleyhl has been the union's main lobbyist for decades and has served as a University of Minnesota regent and state college system trustee.