National Association of Realtors president steps down, alleging blackmail threat

The president of a major professional trade organization, with 1.5 million members, has announced her resignation, citing blackmail. The president received a threat to disclose a personal matter unless she compromised her position. She chose not to comply, reported the threat to law enforcement, and decided to step down. The president-elect will assume the role immediately. This organization has faced significant challenges, including a previous president resigning due to sexual harassment allegations and a recent antitrust case resulting in substantial damages. A group calling for changes in leadership has emerged, expressing concern about the circumstances surrounding the president’s resignation.