The first consequence since the discussion of sexual harassment in Congress began has come as Rep. John Conyers has stepped down from his position as the ranking member of the House Judiciary Committee.
Here is the statement from Rep. Conyers:
Conyers is accused of sexually harassing female staff members, and a secret settlement was paid out to one of his accusers. Rep. Conyers is one of the original founding members of the Congressional Black Caucus. Conyers is 88 years old, and it is impossible to see how he politically survives the multiple allegations of harassment, misconduct, and abusive behavior that have been leveled against him.
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A settlement was paid to one of his accusers. These are more than allegations. Conyers has demonstrated a pattern of behavior that should never have been in Congress. If the country wants to change the culture of sexism and sexual harassment, they can do so by looking at this issue through a non-partisan lens and getting rid of powerful men who abuse their status by using it to harm women.
Jason is the managing editor. He is also a White House Press Pool and a Congressional correspondent for PoliticusUSA. Jason has a Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science. His graduate work focused on public policy, with a specialization in social reform movements.
Awards and Professional Memberships
Member of the Society of Professional Journalists and The American Political Science Association
