IDP calls on fellow Republicans to condemn dangerous comments
Iowa Congressman Steve King has denied that sexual harassment exists in his latest defense of presidential candidate Herman Cain. This week King argued that sexual harassment is “a terrible concept, to define an action by the perception of the perceived victim.” King also recalled attending a sexual harassment training, which he claimed was a waste of time.
“It’s shocking that Steve King would suggest sexual harassment does not exist,” said Iowa Democratic Party Chairwoman Sue Dvorsky. “Far too many Iowans have been victims of sexual harassment, and they deserve a representative who will take this issue seriously. Steve King needs to apologize and I urge his fellow Republicans to condemn his dangerous and appalling comments.”
King has previously criticized other protections on women in and out of the workplace. He voted against the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act and even criticized the Violence Against Women Act, arguing that it interferes with marriage [Draft Rules Committee transcript, 9/27/05]. Recently, King also came under fire for reminiscing about a time when “you had to be a male property owner in order to vote.”
“Arguing that sexual harassment doesn’t exist only furthers the problem and decreases safety in the workplace. There should be no question that it exists and that we must remain committed to protecting both women and men from harassment,” added Dvorsky.
