Another Ex-Hill Staffer Reportedly Accused Rep. John Conyers of ‘Daily’ Sexual Harassment
After BuzzFeed News’ expose on sexual harassment allegations against Congressman John Conyers of Michigan yesterday, evidence that another woman accused the Democrat lawmaker of misconduct has been brought to light.
In a follow-up piece from BuzzFeed News today, the online outlet detailed accusations from a former congressional staffer who experienced sexual harassment at the hands of the representative “daily.” These new allegations were once part of a suit against Conyers that was killed in court after the woman abandoned it because it would no longer be sealed if she persisted.
This new accuser is one of at least three women who have accused the lawmaker of some form of sexual harassment — including inappropriate physical contact, such as thigh-grabbing and shoulder-rubbing. The other women include two ex-congressional staffers, one of which who reached a settlement with Conyers.
“These behaviors and actions were so common and pervasive that they created a hostile work environment,” said the most recent accuser. The woman went onto say that these inappropriate actions were taken out on her “repeatedly and daily” — to the point that she felt inclined to take the allegations to court.
The lawmaker has “vehemently” shot-down these claims, suggesting that — despite the $27,000 settlement — he was able to resolve these issues without ever admitting to any wrongdoing.
“I expressly and vehemently denied the allegations made against me, and continue to do so. My office resolved the allegations — with an express denial of liability — in order to save all involved from the rigors of protracted litigation. That should not be lost in the narrative. It is important to recognize that the mere making of an allegation does not mean it is true,” said the 88-year-old lawmaker.
The House Ethics Committee said today, in response to Monday’s report, that they are conducting an investigation.
On today’s report, BuzzFeed says a spokesman for the congressman said “[the former staffer] voluntarily decided to drop her case.”
[image via screengrab/YouTube]
