(MENAFN) Paul Ingrassia, President Donald Trump's nominee to lead a crucial US federal oversight agency, has withdrawn from the position following the discovery of offensive text messages he is said to have sent.

The 30-year-old announced his decision to step down from the nomination to head the Office of Special Counsel (OSC), citing "because unfortunately I do not have enough Republican votes at this time."

A number of Republican senators had indicated they would oppose Ingrassia's confirmation after Politico reported that he had sent messages in a group chat where he allegedly referred to himself as having a "Nazi streak."

In response to the controversy, a White House representative confirmed to BBC News that Ingrassia was no longer being considered for the role.

The OSC is an independent agency aimed at safeguarding government employees who expose improper practices.

Ingrassia, a former right-wing podcast host and current White House liaison at the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), shared a message on X stating he would "continue to serve President Trump and this administration to Make America Great Again," though his statement made no mention of the contentious text messages.

BBC News has sought clarification from the White House regarding whether Ingrassia will maintain his position at DHS.

The announcement of his withdrawal came shortly after Senate Majority Leader John Thune, the leading Republican in the Senate, expressed skepticism about Ingrassia's ability to gather sufficient support to secure confirmation.

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