Missouri lawmaker resigns amid sexual harassment allegations

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) -- A Missouri lawmaker has resigned under pressure after an investigation into a sexual harassment complaint found he engaged in "ethical misconduct" by sending flirtatious text messages and repeatedly pursuing a relationship with a legislative employee whom he supervised.

Democratic Rep. DaRon McGee, of Kansas City, submitted his resignation late Monday. It was printed in the House Journal, which was publicly available Tuesday, along with an investigatory report from the House Ethics Committee detailing the allegations against him and recommending a series of punishments.

Reached by phone Tuesday by The Associated Press, McGee said: "I'm not making any comment." He referred questions to an attorney, who did not immediately respond to a message.

McGee is the latest of at least three dozen state lawmakers across the country who have resigned or been expelled from office since 2017 following allegations of sexual misconduct or harassment. Dozens of additional accused lawmakers have faced other repercussions, such as the loss of legislative leadership positions or committee assignments.

Read more: http://www.newstribune.com/news/missouri/story/2019/apr/30/missouri-lawmaker-resigns-amid-sexual-harassment-allegations/776649/