Democratic Michigan Rep. John Conyers should be held to a lower standard than other prominent accused sexual abusers because he’s an elected official, according to two top Democrats and members of the Congressional Black Caucus.
South Carolina Democratic Rep. James Clyburn and Louisiana Democratic Rep. Cedric Richmond dismissed a reporter’s contrast between Conyers, whom many Democrats have been slow to condemn, and prominent men like Hollywood mogul Harvey Weinstein and NBC News’ Matt Lauer, who faced swift repercussions when credibly accused of sexual harassment.
“Other men in other industries have faced similar accusations and gotten out of the way — resigned, stepped down — far faster than he has,” the reported asked Clyburn and Richmond, who chairs the Congressional Black Caucus.
“I don’t know, you would have to give me some examples,” Richmond dodged, while waiting for an elevator. “Harvey Weinstein, Charlie Rose, Matt Lauer…” the reporter shot back.
“Who elected them?” asked Clyburn, who is the third-highest Democrat in the House. “Right,” Richmond agreed.
WATCH:
CBC Chair Richmond asks for ex. of ppl leaving jobs faster than Conyers when face sexual harassment claims; Clyburn asks “who elected them?” pic.twitter.com/FGDNbvBUcg
— Alex Moe (@AlexNBCNews) November 29, 2017
Some members of the Congressional Black Caucus are reportedly trying to find a way to ease Conyers out of office without damaging his legacy due to accusations that he sexually preyed on female staffers and demanded sexual favors from them. (RELATED: Pelosi Defends Conyers, Says He’s ‘An Icon’)