AUGUSTA - House Majority Leader Michelle Dunphy, D-Old Town, and Assistant House Majority Leader Rachel Talbot Ross, D-Portland, have released a joint statement in response to the actions of Rep. Bruce Bickford, R-Auburn, in the Legislature's Taxation Committee:
"The people of Maine expect their elected representatives to act with decorum, to treat their fellow lawmakers with respect and to demonstrate leadership and values to the public. Twice this month, Rep. Bickford joined a legislative committee meeting over Zoom with a background that makes light of Harvey Weinsteins crimes. Rep. Bickford not only belittled the violence committed against Weinsteins 80 victims, but he disrespected our entire legislative branch, the staff who support our work and every Mainer who has experienced sexual assault and harassment. We are glad that Rep. Bickford has issued an apology, but that apology did not demonstrate an understanding of why these actions were so problematic. His actions require consequences and must serve as a reminder that no one should have to put up with sexual harassment and offensive behavior, especially not in a work environment, and especially not in the Maine State Legislature."
The Legislatures Human Resources Department has been made aware of the incidents and is looking into whether they violate the Legislatures policy on harassment.
Contact:
Jackie Merrill [Dunphy, Talbot Ross], c. 812-1111