Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro is facing backlash from Republicans over his handling of sexual harassment allegations made against one of his top aides who recently resigned. Several female Republican lawmakers, led by Senate President Pro Tempore Kim Ward, have raised concerns about why the aide was allowed to remain in his position for months after the accuser came forward. The Democratic governor broke his silence on the scandal involving his former Secretary of Legislative Affairs Mike Vereb, who resigned in September nearly six months after being accused of harassment by a female subordinate.
According to a draft of a Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission complaint obtained by PennLive, the woman stated that she could no longer work in an environment where she was subject to lewd and sexually inappropriate comments from Vereb. She also claimed that she faced retaliation when she complained. Shapiro’s spokesman, Manuel Bonder, emphasized that the Commonwealth takes allegations of discrimination and harassment seriously and that robust procedures are in place for thoroughly investigating such reports.
Republican officials criticized Shapiro’s response to the allegations, with Michael Straw, the communications director for the Pennsylvania State Republican Campaign Committee, stating that there are legitimate questions about the handling of harassment allegations in the governor’s office. The accuser’s attorney, Charles Pascal, chairman of the Armstrong County Democratic Committee, also criticized Shapiro’s remarks, emphasizing that concerns about sexual harassment in the workplace should not be dismissed.
In response to the criticism, Shapiro urged reporters to consider the source when it comes to comments from Senate President Pro Tempore Kim Ward. Bonder explained that Shapiro was referring to Ward’s opposition to legislation that would increase the statute of limitations on sex crimes. Shapiro reiterated his commitment to creating a safe work environment for Commonwealth employees and highlighted the leadership of two strong women in his administration, Chief of Staff Dana Fritz and General Counsel Jennifer Selber.
Democratic State Senator Lisa Boscola expressed confidence in the governor’s handling of the matter, stating that she and other female Democratic lawmakers had met privately with Shapiro and were confident in his administration’s ability to address personnel issues.
Governor Shapiro’s administration has emphasized its commitment to thoroughly investigating allegations of discrimination and harassment and creating a safe work environment for all employees. The governor has pledged to sign legislation increasing the statute of limitations on sex crimes once it is brought to a vote, and he continues to work towards justice and accountability for survivors of sexual abuse in Pennsylvania.
Overall, the handling of sexual harassment allegations within Governor Shapiro’s office has drawn criticism from Republicans, while Democrats remain confident in his administration’s ability to address the issue. The governor has committed to maintaining a safe work environment and holding abusers accountable.
