Cota had received criticism from Phoenix Union staff and community members after he attended a Christmas party with ties to neo-Nazis and self-proclaimed White supremacists.
“The outright persecution I have experienced as a board member from other members and district personnel have jilted my relationships, caused damage and irrefutable harm, and created a toxic operating environment for both professional and personal endeavors,” said Cota in a statement shared on his social media.
Cota did not immediately respond to request for comment.
The decision comes after community members spoke out against Cota at a Feb. 5 Phoenix Union governing board meeting. An online petition demanding his resignation also received hundreds of signatures from the community.
«As we look towards the future, the District is hopeful that the selection of a candidate to fill this vacancy will be more aligned with the constituents this seat represents until the voters can formally elect their choice in November,» said Richard Franco, a spokesperson for Phoenix Union.