See below for Rep. Bobby Scott’s statement on these allegations against him. I certainly hope that these charges are false, as Rep. Scott has been a strong progressive representing VA-03 for years. I guess we’ll just have to see, and I’m very suspicious given that the accuser seems to have been represented by a right-wing operative previously and that the far-right “Free Beacon” seems to be pushing this, but for now, here’s Rep. Scott’s statement (see below the P.S.), in which he categorically denies the charges…
P.S. Also, watching the press conference video, I’m immediately put off by the fact that the accuser’s standing right next to Jack Burkman – yeah, this Jack Burkman (“Republican lobbyist says murder of DNC staffer Seth Rich linked to Russian operatives”). And yeah, this Jack Burkman (“Burkman heads the organization American Decency, a conservative organization that claims to have 3.62 million members. The organization drew media attention when Burkman announced plans to protest the Dallas Cowboys signing of Michael Sam, the first publicly gay player to be drafted in the NFL, stating “We cannot just stand idly by as Christian values and morals are trampled. We will do whatever we can to preserve family values in this country.” Burkman called for legislation that would prohibit gays from playing in the NFL”). Gack!
Today, a former Congressional Black Caucus Foundation fellow, backed by a Republican operative known for dabbling in outlandish conspiracy theories, falsely alleged an act of sexual harassment against me. I absolutely deny this allegation of misconduct. I have never sexually harassed anyone in my 25 years of service in the United States Congress, or in my 40 years of public service, or at any other time. Sexual harassment and assault are serious issues deserving of critical attention and review. No one should be subjected to sexual harassment or be treated unfairly. I have fought to promote and ensure that in my political and professional life and I live by it personally. The recent national discussion about sexual harassment is valued and important to our work to continue to make the workplace free from harassment and discrimination. False allegations will squander this momentous opportunity for dialogue on meaningful change in the workplace. I am confident that this false allegation will be seen for what it is when the facts are adequately reviewed.
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