ALBANY COUNTY — George Langdon IV, a Republican Albany County legislator representing Coeymans, resigned on Monday following anti-gay comments he had made on March 27, which were widely circulated on social media and covered in the press.

“During the past several days, I have taken time to reflect and consider how to best serve our community moving forward,” said Langdon in a statement released on Monday afternoon. “It is with a heavy heart that I have decided to resign my seat at the Albany County Legislature.

“I again express my sincerest apologies to all those who were hurt by my rash and thoughtless statements. It was never my intention to single-out or target anyone. I truly believe every individual should have the right to life and liberty in their pursuit of happiness.”

The vacancy will be filled by an appointment, made by recommendations of the local political parties, and voted on by a majority of the Albany County Legislature, which is dominated by Democrats. The appointee will serve until Jan. 1 following the next general election, at which time, the vacancy will be filled for the unexpired term.

A flurry of statements from the same county leaders who last week had called for an apology or his resignation followed Langdon’s statement on Monday.

“We support George Langdon’s decision to resign and for doing what he believes to be right for his family and constituents,” said Republican Minority Leader Mauriello. “His recent statements were offensive and wrong. He is apologetic and understands the hurtful nature of his remarks.”

Democrat Andrew Joyce, who chairs the county legislature, said it has a “responsibility to build and represent communities where diversity, inclusion, equity, and tolerance are paramount.”

Joyce went on, “Mr. Langdon’s comments are in direct contrast to these shared priorities. Mr. Langdon can no longer effectively lead, so he has made the right choice to resign.”

Democrat Daniel McCoy, the county executive, reiterated his views that “homophobia and bigotry has no place in Albany County, but especially among policymakers.”

McCoy went on, “This community and the entire country is made stronger by its diversity. It’s truly unfortunate to be in this situation in the first place, but Legislator Langdon made the right decision in stepping down. Now is the time for us to heal, to move forward, and to stand firm in opposition to hate as one united community.”

Langdon had spoken at Camp Pinnacle, a Bible camp in New Scotland, as part of a weekend seminar titled “Return to Liberty under the Constitution Seminar.”

As his speech was winding down, Langdon talked about “where this country’s going,” and about the “gender issue.”

He then said, “Everything God does is sustainable; it’s sustainable. It goes on and on and on; it’s perpetual. Sorry, when you have homosexual relationships it’s not perpetual. Give them an island, they’ll be gone in 40 years.”

Langdon did not respond to earlier Enterprise calls seeking comment.

Last Thursday, Langdon issued an apology “to the LGBTQ community and all others for the hurtful remarks recently made at a conference.”

His statement went on, “I have never been homophobic nor do I think any individuals should be placed on an island. I deeply regret my foolish off-the-cuff comment that has caused so much pain. I commit to doing a better job of respecting diversity.

“I hope my years of past public service demonstrate genuine concern for all individuals. I will be taking time to reflect on how to best serve moving forward.”