Rep. Trent Franks, an eight-term House Rep, has announced his resignation from the U.S. House of Representative after an investigation was launched over alleged harassment with his subordinates.
“I have recently learned that the Ethics Committee is reviewing an inquiry regarding my discussion of surrogacy with two previous female subordinates, making each feel uncomfortable,” Franks said in a statement. “I deeply regret that my discussion of this option and process in the workplace caused distress.”
Franks said he will resign, effective January 31, 2018.
“I have absolutely never physically intimidated, coerced, or had, or attempted to have, any sexual contact with any member of my congressional staff,” Franks explained. “However, I do want to take full and personal responsibility for the ways I have broached a topic that, unbeknownst to me until very recently, made certain individuals uncomfortable.”
After Paul Ryan’s general counsel had interviewed a second aide who claims misconduct, Ryan was informed and spoke with Franks. On November 30th he demanded Trent Franks resign for his “troubling behavior” at his former staffers.
He then filed a complaint with the Ethics committee.
Franks is a prominent evangelical Christian member of Congress as well as a high-profile anti-abortion advocate. A member of the Freedom Cacus and serves on the Judiciary and Armed Services committees.
He had recently announced his plans to run for his 9th term when all this came to light.
So here’s the difference between this and Al Frankens. Franken, there’s proof and he basically admits it. He sees what happens in a different light but he admits it. All that’s happened with Franks is accusations — just like with Roy Moore — and that’s the difference. The “jury’s still out” on either one of them.
Don’t get me wrong, if it’s found out to be true then yeah — resign, dude. Don’t be creepy. But right now it’s hearsay, isn’t it?