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NY representative Tom Reed takes “full responsibility” following sexual misconduct allegations

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New York Representative Tom Reed apologized for sexual misconduct following allegations made against him by a former Lobbyist on Sunday. He said he takes “full responsibility” for his actions.

Republican Rep. Tom Reed, who was elected for congress in 2010, has announced that he would not seek office in 2022 on Sunday. The six-term Republican previously said he would not serve more than six terms in the House, but he had been considering running for New York governor next year. 

The accusations made by Nicolette Davis, a former lobbyist, were reported to The Washington Post on Friday. She told the paper that the events took place in 2017 during a networking trip to Minneapolis. During that trip a group, including Rep. Reed, stopped at an Irish pub. Davis informed the Post that Reed, who was drunk at the time, unhooked her bra from the outside of her shirt and moved his hand up her thigh. She proceeded to ask a colleague for help, who then intervened and stopped Reed.

When Reed was first informed about these allegations he denied them. “This account of my actions is not accurate,” he said. He then declined further questioning. However, on Sunday he backed out of his denial. He said that even though he does not recall these actions, he believes her. “I hear her voice and will not dismiss her. In reflection, my personal depiction of this event is irrelevant,” he said. “Simply put, my behavior caused her pain, showed her disrespect and was unprofessional. I was wrong, I am sorry, and I take full responsibility”, said Reed.

He went on to explain that the event of Davis’s story took place when he was struggling with an alcohol addiction. “This is in no way an excuse for anything I’ve done,” he said in his statement. “Consistent with my recovery, I publicly take ownership of my past actions, offer this amends and humbly apologize again to Ms. Davis, my wife and kids, loved ones, and to all of you.” Reed has also been outspoken about sexual harassment or other acts of misconduct following the #metoo campaign in late 2017. In 2017, Reed supported a House resolution requiring lawmakers and their staff to receive workplace sexual harassment training. He also supported legislation in 2018 that required lawmakers to be held personally liable for lawsuit settlements with staffers alleging harassment.

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ARTICLE: KAMMIE CLEMENT

POLITICS EDITOR: CARSON CHOATE

PHOTO CREDITS: THE ITHACA VOICE

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