Johnson, Jeffries launch bipartisan effort to combat sexual misconduct in Congress

Source: msn/Axios

12h


House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) and Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.) are forming a bipartisan "partnership" between the Republican and Democratic women's caucuses to combat sexual misconduct in Congress.

Why it matters: Congress is going through its biggest reckoning over workplace culture and sexual misconduct since the #MeToo movement rocked Capitol Hill in 2017 and 2018.

The renewed scrutiny intensified after two lawmakers — Reps. Tony Gonzales (R-Texas) and Eric Swalwell (D-Calif.) — resigned last month amid allegations of sexual misconduct.

Swalwell also faces allegations of sexual assault, which he denies. Gonzales admitted to an affair with a staffer who later died by suicide.

Separately, Axios reported Wednesday that a young female staffer whom Rep. Chuck Edwards (R-N.C.) singled out for special attention told another person that she feared retaliation from the congressman.

Edwards' conduct toward young female aides has prompted a House Ethics Committee investigation. He has denied wrongdoing.

Read more: https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/politics/johnson-jeffries-launch-bipartisan-effort-to-combat-sexual-misconduct-in-congress/ar-AA237z0F