New Mexico Governor Susana Martinez said former Apollo astronaut Harrison Schmitt has withdrawn his nomination to serve as secretary of the state’s Energy, Minerals and Natural Resources Department.

Mr Schmitt walked on the moon as a member of the Apollo 17 mission.

The announcement comes just hours after a state senator criticised Mr Schmitt for refusing to comply with all the rules of a required background check.

The background check is required as part of the Senate confirmation process.

Ms Martinez said Mr Schmitt underwent a complete background check by the state Department of Public Safety before he was nominated for the energy post.

She said Mr Schmitt was willing to allow a private investigator access to his personal information, but was unwilling to waive that investigator’s liability for any improper actions or use of that information.

Ms Martinez said she understands Mr Schmitt’s concerns, but complying with the Legislature’s request is necessary to restore public confidence in state government.

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