Statement on election of new Senate Republican Leaders 

Iowa Senate News Release
For Immediate Release:  March 14, 2018 

 

Statement from Senate Democratic Leader Janet Petersen 

“Congratulations to Senator Whitver and Senator Schneider on being selected the new leaders of the Senate Republicans.

“In the wake of Senator Dix’s resignation, Senators Whitver and Schneider have an obligation to finally get it right and change a culture at the Iowa Capitol that is currently putting lobbyists, special interests, and political arrogance ahead of the interests of Iowa families.

“Senators Whitver and Schneider should finally take responsibility for the sexual harassment, discrimination and retaliation against former Senate Republican staffer Kirsten Anderson by Republican Senators and staff. After footing the bill for a $1.75 million settlement in Kirsten Anderson’s lawsuit against Senate Republicans, Iowa taxpayers deserve nothing less.

“Iowa taxpayers’ dollars should have never been used as a slush fund to cover the cost of sexual harassment by Senate Republicans. Senators Whitver and Schneider should turn over all campaign funds raised by Senator Dix to begin to cover the costs of the illegal behavior by their caucus.”

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