Democratic State Representative for Colorado, Steve Lebsock becomes the second lawmaker in the US after Arizona Republican Representative Don Shooter to be ejected from office following sexual harassment allegations triggered by the MeToo movement. The shooter was expelled on February 1 after the same kind of allegations were leveled against him. In fact, he resigned before his colleagues could take on a vote though he maintained his innocence.
The MeToo movement and campaign could be regarded as a phenomenal course especially for women all over the world. The movement was formed to give women a platform to talk about their sexual harassment experiences hence giving them a voice. Its mandate may have been underestimated but as experienced, the MeToo campaign led to a “domino effect” as to date, many people are still coming forward to tell their stories leading to ripples in America. Lawmakers and staffers in different sectors are being called to justice for actions hey may have committed years ago.
Vote by Colorado House Chamber
Steve’s colleagues voted 52-9 to expel him after an emotional daylong debate that saw numerous lawmakers reveal their experiences with sexual harassment and assault. Lebsock was absent during the voting session but was present during the long day debate that got his colleagues speaking about their experiences. Some lawmakers talked about their wives’ and daughters’ experiences with sexual harassment pitting the chamber into a sorrowful mood.
Five women including Democrat Representative Faith Winter accused Lebsock of sexual harassment. Winter stated that Lebsock confronted her during an end of session party in 2016. The other four women accounted their ordeals through letters that were read during the debate. An independent investigator had taken on the claims and determined that they were credible hence the House’s decision to expel Lebsock.
The House Speaker Cristiana Duran declared that they would not tolerate any form of harassment. She made the declaration after the chamber concluded its vote. She added that it was unbelievable that in 2018, the same conversation on harassment was still being held.
Sentiments from Accusers
Faith Winter claimed that she looks forward to Monday as it would be her first day after a long time to go into a building where she will not be worried about receiving any retaliation from someone she stood up to.
On the other hand, a teary Lebsock addressed the chamber before the vote saying that he wished the best for the accusers and hoped for the best for all his colleagues.
