From White House podium, Sarah Sanders reads denial from alleged wife beater -- smearing the victims as liars

White House Press Secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders on Wednesday announced the resignation of White House staff secretary Rob Porter, one of President Donald Trump's top aides.

The resignation comes after two ex-wives accused Porter of domestic abuse.

In an unexpected move at Wednesday's White House press briefing, Sanders read a statement from Porter, declaring his innocence.

"These outrageous allegations are simply false," Sanders read from the statement. "I took the [black eye] photos given to the media nearly 15 years ago and the reality behind them is nowhere close to what is being described."

"I've been transparent and truthful about these vile claims," Sanders continued, still reciting the text. "But I will not publicly engage further with a smear campaign."

Watch the video below from CNN.