In a dramatic fall from a position of political influence, former Los Angeles City Councilman Martin Ludlow announced his resignation Tuesday as head of a powerful Southern California labor group and was close to reaching a plea bargain with prosecutors who believe union money flowed illegally to his council campaign. Ludlow's resignation was seen as a serious blow to labor in Southern California. He was popular and charismatic and had the support of many factions that often battle with one another.
See "Ludlow Resigns Labor Post, Says He Will Aid Prosecutors", Patrick McGreevy and Steve Hymon, Los Angeles Times, February 21, 2006