Former ABC News correspondent Martin Bashir -- who, as of late, has been seen on MSNBC -- has resigned from the cable news network after making "offensive" comments about former Alaska governor-turned-pop culture punchline Sarah Palin.  

Fox News is reporting that the scathing attack against Palin happened three weeks ago, but it was only yesterday -- after Bashir met with MSNBC president Phil Griffin -- that Bashir decided to resign. In addition, Bashir issued a formal apology to Palin and the viewers. 

"Upon further reflection, and after meeting with the president of MSNBC, I have tendered my resignation. It is my sincere hope that all of my colleagues, at this special network, will be allowed to focus on the issues that matter without the distraction of myself or my ill-judged comments. I deeply regret what was said, will endeavor to work hard at making constructive contributions in the future and will always have a deep appreciation for our viewers -- who are the smartest, most compassionate and discerning of all television audiences," read Bashir's statement. 

The apology, and subsequent resignation, came after Bashir called Palin an "idiot" and a "dunce" (not an uncommon sentiment, to be sure), and suggested that someone should defecate in Palin's mouth. 

For her part, Palin -- never one to miss out on an opportunity for a comment about a matter -- has already released a statement of her own. According to the New York Daily News, Palin took it all in stride. "My role is to accept his apology and be humble enough to accept it and move on. At this point, I'm used to it. In this world, you're going to be hurt, and attacks will come your way," she said. 

MSNBC president Phil Griffin released a statement of his own about the matter, as well: "Martin Bashir resigned today, effective immediately. I understand his decision and I thank him for three great years with MSNBC. Martin is a good man and respected colleague  -- we wish him only the best."