Latest Post | Last 10 Posts | Archives
Previous Post: Turnabout is fair play
Next Post: SUBSCRIBERS ONLY - Political events calendar
Posted in:
* Press release…
Madigan staff member comes forward about harassment by Chief of Staff Tim Mapes
Long-time State House employee cites repeated incidents of bullying, harassment in Springfield
CHICAGO (June 6, 2018)–A long-time member of Illinois House Speaker Michael J. Madigan’s Office came forward on Wednesday to detail multiple instances of bullying and harassment in the workplace by Madigan’s Chief of Staff, Tim Mapes.
Sherri Garrett, who is an Account Technician and Minutes Clerk for the Speaker’s Office, said she decided to speak out after many years of harassment and bullying.
“I have decided to come forward because we have a serious and pervasive problem in our state government, and I could no longer remain silent about my own mistreatment,” said Garrett, who resides in Springfield. “My hope is that by coming forward, I can help to create space for others to do the same.”
“I want to make sure that the workplace environment is better in the future for our daughters, and our sons,” she said. “We need to force fundamental change–not just lip service, not a quick hit solution, but real cultural transformation.”
Garrett detailed several incidents:
In Spring 2013, former State Rep. Ken Dunkin approached the House Well and said to Ms. Garrett and another woman–“I want to take both of you home and see which one will be the naughtiest.” Ms. Garrett reported the incident. Ms. Garrett later heard that when Mr. Mapes was told about the incident, his response was that it would blow over. While the incident was appropriately addressed by other members of Ms. Garrett’s team ultimately, it later became clear to Ms. Garrett that Mr. Mapes did not take appropriate action to address Rep. Dunkin’s comment, and if it had been left up to Mr. Mapes, the entire incident would have been swept under the rug.
In December 2014, Ms. Garrett was participating in a conversation with several of her colleagues in the Speaker’s Office, planning inauguration logistics. They were discussing the proper drop-off location for a judge at inauguration. In the middle of the conversation, Tim Mapes said that Ms. Garrett needed to make sure she was not showing her “pink bra” to the judge on Inauguration Day, because he “knows how us girls on the second floor like to leave little to the imagination,” Ms. Garrett said. Ms. Garrett said there was no context for this comment, which she found entirely inappropriate. “As anyone can tell you, I never dress provocatively. But even if I did, this would have been a completely inappropriate comment,” said Ms. Garrett.
In September 2015, Ms. Garrett had been approached by a young woman who had previously worked with her in the Clerk’s office. The woman was being sexually harassed by a member of the House Democratic Caucus and had come to talk to Ms. Garrett because she was afraid. Ms. Garrett spoke to Mr. Mapes about the details of the situation, told him she was concerned and asked him to talk to the Representative and tell him to stop. Mr. Mapes then said to Ms. Garrett: “Are you reporting the situation because you are upset the Representative isn’t paying attention to you?” Ms. Garrett was astounded at the comment, and continued to advocate for the young women’s safety. Another colleague was present, and that person was also taken aback by the comment.
A fourth incident took place just a few weeks ago. Ms. Garrett was in the House Well preparing for the start of session. Mr. Mapes approached her and another colleague and started a conversation about another individual. He discussed how the individual “wouldn’t do something because the person was married.” Without full context, Ms. Garrett did not understand what Mr. Mapes was saying. He then looked at Ms. Garrett and said “We know that doesn’t matter around here, does it, Sherri?” Ms. Garrett said something to the effect of, “Yes, this place does have a reputation.” Mr. Mapes then said, “Now, I am not implying that you are running around on Jim [Ms. Garrett’s husband].” Ms. Garrett was again stunned, confused and uncomfortable. Ms. Garrett’s colleague, standing next to her, said something to try to defuse the conversation. Mr. Mapes said to Ms. Garrett’s colleague, “So you’re implying that Sherri is running around on Jim?” Ms. Garrett’s colleague was also stunned. He said no. Later, Ms. Garrett turned to her colleague and said, “Why did that conversation take place?” Ms. Garrett’s colleague said he found the conversation “very awkward and uncomfortable, but not unusual.” Ms. Garrett’s colleague also noted that he did not understand why Mr. Mapes continued to stare at her throughout the interaction.
In April of this year, Mr. Mapes came on the floor. Ms. Garrett heard him say to a colleague: “Are you going to sex training today?,” jokingly referring to sexual harassment training. The Chief of Staff was apparently making light of the training, even in this moment, in which this training is so critical.
On the day of the State of the State Address, many people in Springfield were wearing black in solidarity with the #TimesUp movement. Mr. Mapes wore navy blue. Ms. Garrett noted Mr. Mapes stated: “I’m wearing blue today because there’s not a woman on the House floor that would want me to tell them what to wear.” It was clear that he viewed this as a way for him to thumb his nose at the entire #TimesUp movement.
Mr. Mapes is the Chief of Staff to the Speaker of the House. He is also the Clerk of the House and the Executive Director of the Democratic Party of Illinois.
“[Mapes] has an inordinate amount of power in this state,” said Ms. Garrett. “And the Speaker’s Office, which he helms, is charged with leading the effort to reform the system to address concerns like mine. They should be held to the highest standard.”
Ms. Garrett plans to file a complaint detailing her harassment with the Legislative Inspector General following the press conference.
*** UPDATE 1 *** A few quotes from Ms. Garrett’s press conference today…
I’m loyal to him. This is very hard for me. But I’ve just suffered one disappointment after another with how things were handled. I feel it’s time to do better. I feel it’s time for him to pay attention to us.
There are all kinds of people who are behind me right now that you can’t see because they’re too afraid to come forward.
Please step up for the victims. In reality, we are Democrats. We’re supposed to protect the people who can’t protect themselves.
I would just ask him to help the victims, to believe that we really are victims.
It’s just time for this to stop. I would just challenge him to come forward and take a different path than he’s taken for the last six or seven months.
He has the power to do something for us and make it better for us.
*** UPDATE 2 *** From Ms. Garrett’s written statement at the beginning of her presser…
I have not felt that I have had a safe path to report my experiences. I’m speaking out because victims of harassment like me, men and women alike, just want to go to work, just want to do our jobs with dignity and we want to go home at the end of our day. But, instead, we have a culture of sexism, harassment and bullying that creates an incredibly difficult work environment.
I feel strongly that if we had a human resources office that represents the interests of employees and not the people in power. I wish I would’ve had someone that I could have trusted and to whom I could’ve said, ‘Hey. This happened to me. Is this supposed to happen?’
If there had been a true professional human resources team, they could have said ‘No’ and perhaps we could have nipped it in the bud right then and there.
Mr. Mapes is the chief of staff for the Speaker of the House. He is also the Clerk of the House and the executive director of the Democratic Party of Illinois. He has an inordinate amount of power in the state. And the Speaker’s office which he helms is charged with leading the effort to reform the system to address allegations like mine. They should be held to the highest standard.
Instead they behave like they’re above reproach and like the Speaker’s office is a locker room.
It is scary to come forward and speak out about his behavior. But I feel strongly that employees do not have any protection.
The legislative reforms that have been passed thus far are a good step forward, but they don’t go nearly far enough. And until we see a meaningful commitment to culture change in our state from those at the very top, I fear nothing will improve.
posted by Rich Miller
Wednesday, Jun 6, 18 @ 11:06 am
Sorry, comments are closed at this time.
Previous Post: Turnabout is fair play
Next Post: SUBSCRIBERS ONLY - Political events calendar
WordPress Mobile Edition available at alexking.org.
powered by WordPress.
Fearless, she’s my hero.
Comment by OverandOut Wednesday, Jun 6, 18 @ 11:12 am
Not good. I’m not sure we’re dealing with “drips” anymore. This dam may be on the verge of breaking.
Comment by A guy Wednesday, Jun 6, 18 @ 11:15 am
Fire him immediately. Anything less is unacceptable. Send him out the door by 5pm today.
Comment by PJ Wednesday, Jun 6, 18 @ 11:16 am
Yikes, this one is certainly going to cause some ripples …
Good for her.
Comment by Chucky Jay Wednesday, Jun 6, 18 @ 11:17 am
Can’t hide behind the LIG on this one, he’s staff that answers to one person. Anyone want to take the over on him lasting past the end of the day? Also, has Dunkin been sworn in at the MWRD yet? I hope someone gets Rauner to comment on that part of the allegations considering he just appointed him.
Comment by TopHatMonocle Wednesday, Jun 6, 18 @ 11:17 am
What the heck. This is creepy and disturbing.
Bravo for Garrett shining a light on all this weirdness.
Comment by Macbeth Wednesday, Jun 6, 18 @ 11:17 am
Hard to call this one politically motivated, at least at first glance. This one is coming from inside. Boy, the next staff meeting is going to be pretty awkward.
Inappropriate comments can be sexual harassment and can certainly contribute to a hostile workplace. Mapes might want to review the sexual harassment training module and take its lessons a bit more seriously going forward.
Comment by 47th Ward Wednesday, Jun 6, 18 @ 11:17 am
Wow. She is brave. Good for her for coming forward.
Comment by Miss Marie Wednesday, Jun 6, 18 @ 11:18 am
What did The Speaker know about his staffer’s behavior? If he knew why isn’t his staffer being reprimanded? Sounds like someone got too powerful and thinks he can mistreat citizens working with and for, him.
Comment by VanillaMan Wednesday, Jun 6, 18 @ 11:18 am
Ouch. That’s gonna leave a mark.
Comment by Birdseed Wednesday, Jun 6, 18 @ 11:18 am
I know the answer but how in God’s name do the citizens of Illinois allow this dinosaur to stay in power. Pritzker could really establish his bona fides if he just came out and said he doesn’t support Madigan remaining as Speaker
Comment by Sue Wednesday, Jun 6, 18 @ 11:18 am
Looks like a pretty detailed allegation of hostile work environment to me. At the very least, the alleged attitudes on display are unbecoming of such a high level official. Probably the smart move under the circumstances to go public before going to the LIG to make sure the complaint doesn’t disappear without a trace.
Comment by Ron Burgundy Wednesday, Jun 6, 18 @ 11:20 am
This is not a precinct captain. This is not a ward boss. This is not a campaign staffer who was hidden or fired after one cycle. This is the Speaker’s chief of staff. This is bad. He needs to go. Now.
Comment by Exclamation Point Deleted Wednesday, Jun 6, 18 @ 11:20 am
WOW. Bravo to Ms. Garrett for coming forward.
Comment by Lunchbox Wednesday, Jun 6, 18 @ 11:21 am
Good.
Comment by crazybleedingheart Wednesday, Jun 6, 18 @ 11:22 am
The occasional drops have turned into a steady drip Mike. Your about to be washed downstream if you don’t get in front of this.
Comment by Leave a Light on George Wednesday, Jun 6, 18 @ 11:23 am
Rich- who sent out the press release?
Comment by Truth Squad Wednesday, Jun 6, 18 @ 11:23 am
Bravo to Sherri Garrett! And to think that Mapes, Lang, and all the other phonies were out there promoting ratification of the Equal Rights Amendment. Absolutely shameful! Time’s up indeed, Mike Madigan, time’s up!
Comment by Black Ivy Wednesday, Jun 6, 18 @ 11:24 am
does the retired educator think this poor woman is still going after her 15 minutes of fame?
Comment by Iggy Wednesday, Jun 6, 18 @ 11:24 am
This is a damming account of how a part of that office is run. The Speaker has precious little time to react to the day’s news.
Comment by Cool Papa Bell Wednesday, Jun 6, 18 @ 11:25 am
These are not ancient allegations, which is something people often cite in dismissing them.
This isn’t the first time we have heard these or similar things about Mapes if I recall correctly.
Here is what I do not get, there are many women (more than half of our district employees are female including admin team) and I have never considered make statements or starting conversation of a sexual nature with any of my colleagues or those that I supervise. What is it with some people who seemingly cannot stay away from that? And then there is the whole power tripping/intimidation aspect of their behavior.
We need to make a change and fast.
Comment by JS Mill Wednesday, Jun 6, 18 @ 11:25 am
Wow. There is no way Mapes keeps his job, is there?
Comment by So_Ill Wednesday, Jun 6, 18 @ 11:26 am
Mapes can be particularly pointed about whatever issue if you don’t agree with him. His behavior is ugly, and I say that not even having experienced sexual harassment from him. Fire him now, Mr. Madigan.
thank you, brave Sherri Garrett.
Comment by Amalia Wednesday, Jun 6, 18 @ 11:29 am
House Speaker Barbara Flynn Curry? Yes I know she said she is retiring, but Democrats will be looking for a female leader if MM goes
Comment by BucknIrish Wednesday, Jun 6, 18 @ 11:31 am
I’m a woman too but just because a woman says something doesn’t mean it’s true or that she has exaggerated. I’m just not into the rush to judgment. We are at a point where the bad and the good are lumped together. ‘Member Dan Rutherford? Nothing came out of those allegations. Zip.
Comment by metooing Wednesday, Jun 6, 18 @ 11:32 am
Would MJM fear a disgruntled (and fired) Mapes?
Comment by Downstate Wednesday, Jun 6, 18 @ 11:33 am
The fish rots from the head down.
Mike Madigan was on deck before, during, and after all these scandals and he only became interested after the lawsuits and complains started piling up. Time’s up for Mr. Speaker and Mr. Mapes.
Comment by Arthur Andersen Wednesday, Jun 6, 18 @ 11:34 am
==just because a woman says something doesn’t mean it’s true or that she has exaggerated==
Thanks for chiming in, Tim. You’re wasting time you should be using to pack up your office.
Comment by PJ Wednesday, Jun 6, 18 @ 11:35 am
Sherri, You got it right….there’s no person in the capitol more disrespectful of elected officials and staff….
Comment by PastaJim Wednesday, Jun 6, 18 @ 11:37 am
== Thanks for chiming in, Tim. You’re wasting time you should be using to pack up your office. ==
Typical troll statement. My heels would beg to differ. I get it, you work for the governor. I don’t work for either.
Comment by metooing Wednesday, Jun 6, 18 @ 11:38 am
@ metooing
Are you for real? This is a pretty detailed account of harassment over several years. Also, there are third party witnesses to a lot of these comments. Your comment is a prime example of a stock puppet which in red it says is a no no.
Comment by Bumblin stumblin rumblin Wednesday, Jun 6, 18 @ 11:38 am
He needs to go on leave….from all three of his jobs.
Comment by MusselMan Wednesday, Jun 6, 18 @ 11:39 am
== I get it, you work for the governor. ==
I work for a Democratic elected official. All of whom despise the jerk you’re white-knighting for.
Comment by PJ Wednesday, Jun 6, 18 @ 11:41 am
MJM,
TONE AT THE TOP.
You have lost the narrative on this crisis. It’s time to throw out the old playbook and reach out to someone other than your staff for guidance. After all, they’ve gotten you into this mess. Don’t wait for the next shoe to drop. Don’t wait for the next Democrat to defect from your camp. Act now as you will quickly become THE issue for the 2018 election cycle.
Comment by Downstate Wednesday, Jun 6, 18 @ 11:43 am
Some of y’all need to take a breath. You don’t fire someone as soon as you hear allegations. You put them on leave of some sort and sit down and gather info. Then when you have the closest approximation to the truth you can get you make a decision, which is probably going to be the fire him.
Comment by Perrid Wednesday, Jun 6, 18 @ 11:43 am
==You don’t fire someone as soon as you hear allegations==
You clearly haven’t ever worked with this office. Anyone who has interacted with Mapes knows this sounds perfectly in character. What’s an “investigation” going to look like? Asking him whether he said it? Of course he did. This woman has lots and lose and absolutely nothing to gain by making up these specific, details allegations.
Comment by PJ Wednesday, Jun 6, 18 @ 11:45 am
Mapes is also treasurer of the Democratic Majority PAC. Cut off contributions (or request refunds) until he steps down.
Comment by City Zen Wednesday, Jun 6, 18 @ 11:46 am
https://capitolfax.com/wp-content/ScreenShot20150820at11.48.22PM.jpg
Comment by Birdseed Wednesday, Jun 6, 18 @ 11:51 am
On the other hand noone here seems to have a problem with Ken Dunkin’s (Rauner’s guy) behavior. Maybe Mr. Mapes should be given a nice Board appointment somewhere…
Comment by Duopoly (blocked maybe?) Wednesday, Jun 6, 18 @ 11:51 am
I think Madigan is Paterno’ed with this one. He’s stuck around way too long and bad things are finally coming out that he can no longer distance himself from. I wish he would just retire.
Ms. Garrett is very brave and has probably heard stories from other women under the dome as well. Mapes should resign and Madigan should at least step down as speaker. this is getting so bad.
Comment by Baloneymous Wednesday, Jun 6, 18 @ 11:52 am
Wow, took the defenders longer to chime in than expected.
Serious question for the defenders (and others)
– Do you think the established process for addressing this is sufficient?
– What (if any) implications should there be when a complaint is made vs when it is ‘proven’?
Comment by OneMan Wednesday, Jun 6, 18 @ 11:52 am
Duly noted.
Comment by Colin O'Scopy Wednesday, Jun 6, 18 @ 11:56 am
The Speaker Office’s has constantly stepped in it at every point since this began. Waiting until a story was going to run before firing Kevin Quinn. The Speaker’s weird press conference. Hiring an “independent” lawyer whose family lobbies with Madigan’s political director. Calling Dart’s office as a warning to Kelly Cassidy.
Now this. Mapes’ obvious disregard for the storm raging all around him is going to be his downfall. The Speaker was not ready for this. He tried to control it, rather than getting everything out there. Mapes has to go.
Rich has talked about the Madigan Tax on Dem candidates. It keeps getting higher and higher. Madigan thinks of himself as the reason Dems have stayed in control. He also rationalizes staying in power to protect Democrats (from Rod, from Rauner, etc). Now he’s hurting them, and Democrats are going to have to win in spite of the Speaker.
As a Democrats, I’m deathly afraid of Rauner’s re-election. The one way to absolutely guarantee JB wins is for Madigan to step down. It’s obviously not going to happen… but it’s finally in the best interests of the Democratic Party for it to happen.
Comment by Anonchalant Wednesday, Jun 6, 18 @ 11:56 am
Let’s wait a minute and watch the House Democrat legislators - women and men - again look down at their shoes and not utter a peep.
They were quiet on Silverstein.
They were quiet on Hampton.
They were quiet on Cassidy.
Some backed Lang… amazingly.
What do they do today? Do they stand up or once again serve as the shrinking violets.
Comment by Anonymous Wednesday, Jun 6, 18 @ 11:56 am
Years ago, some people used to call Madigan’s crew. “the Madigoons.” Seems like an apt description. This stuff adds up to a hostile workplace environment form of harassment.
Comment by Practical Politics Wednesday, Jun 6, 18 @ 11:56 am
@Baloneymous
I might be borrowing the term Paterno’ed in the future.
Comment by DaleyMail Wednesday, Jun 6, 18 @ 11:56 am
===Duly noted===
One of the better insider comments ever posted here.
Comment by Rich Miller Wednesday, Jun 6, 18 @ 11:58 am
Absolutely stunning tone deafness from Speaker Madigan’s organization.
His lawyers would asked to dismiss the sexual harassment lawsuit filed against his organization yesterday.
Problem solved, nothing to see here folks move along.
https://www.usnews.com/news/best-states/illinois/articles/2018-06-06/madigan-asks-for-dismissal-of-sexual-harassment-lawsuit
Comment by Lucky Pierre Wednesday, Jun 6, 18 @ 11:58 am
And what ends up happening? Mapes will take his golden parachute.
He almost certainly has the years to “retire.” His pension will start out over $125k and go up from there.
Comment by MacombMike Wednesday, Jun 6, 18 @ 12:03 pm
===Duly noted===
=One of the better insider comments ever posted here.=
No it’s only “noted”.
Comment by MakePoliticsCoolAgain Wednesday, Jun 6, 18 @ 12:03 pm
===No it’s only “noted”. ===
True. My bad.
Comment by Rich Miller Wednesday, Jun 6, 18 @ 12:04 pm
Mike Madigan and the chiefs of staff he controls, am I right?
Comment by JB13 Wednesday, Jun 6, 18 @ 12:04 pm
To be fair, I have heard “duly” before.
Comment by Colin O'Scopy Wednesday, Jun 6, 18 @ 12:07 pm
An open request to JB Pritzker:
Mr. Pritzker, I believe you are a good and decent man. You should be the first one to come out with a statement that Mapes has to go. Now.
Comment by Violet Seepage Wednesday, Jun 6, 18 @ 12:09 pm
==To be fair, I have heard “duly” before.==
Noted.
Comment by Who else Wednesday, Jun 6, 18 @ 12:10 pm
Because… Madigan!
Comment by Texas Red Wednesday, Jun 6, 18 @ 12:10 pm
Just because a woman makes allegations/accusations does not mean they are true. We used to live in a time where you were innocent until proven guilty. As a woman myself I can honestly say I am scared raising a son in this time. Of course there are women telling the truth,but before you condemn someone wait for a fair investigation. There are two sides to every story. I feel as this is turning into a witch Hunt.
Comment by Enlightened spirit Wednesday, Jun 6, 18 @ 12:12 pm
=You should be the first one to come out with a statement that Mapes has to go. Now.=
My guess is that we get a comment from Galia on his position. I don’t think they’ve even put out anything attributable to him on any of this.
But I would agree. I’m not sure there’s much else he could do to boost his poll numbers as much as he could by calling on Madigan to step down.
Comment by m Wednesday, Jun 6, 18 @ 12:12 pm
==Instead they behave like they’re above reproach and like the Speaker’s office is a locker room.==
I think we’ll see this line again…and again. Wow.
Comment by A guy Wednesday, Jun 6, 18 @ 12:13 pm
Times sure have changed!
15 years ago when I last worked in a state office, none of these Mapes comments would have raised an eyebrow.
I guess we “gals” in those days were used to the old boy network oppressive hijinks.
I was once harassed by a borderline psychotic, who worked in my state office, to such an extent that I almost had a mental breakdown.
I had refused to put an unqualified friend of his into a training program and, angry with my refusal, he set about loudly insulting and publically belittling and humiliating me ruthlessly for weeks afterwards in person and on the phone.
When I reported what he was doing to my superiors they told me to laugh it off and that he probably just had a crush on me.
It got to the point where I had to use up my leave as I was so afraid of going to work.
After a month or so of this insanity, one kind upper level manager granted me a transfer to another section.
‘Glad women today are speaking up against boorish behavior and that people in charge are paying attention to them.
Comment by Becky Gelke Wednesday, Jun 6, 18 @ 12:14 pm
==We used to live in a time where you were innocent until proven guilty==
Really? When? “Innocent until proven guilty” is the standard in court, not the court of public opinion. We are free to bash whomever we want if they are in the public eye.
Comment by Anon Wednesday, Jun 6, 18 @ 12:16 pm
=Because… Madigan!=
I think that will be changing to “Because… Mapes” soon.
Comment by Colin O'Scopy Wednesday, Jun 6, 18 @ 12:17 pm
=== We used to live in a time where you were innocent until proven guilty===
We still do. In criminal courts, which is what that constitutional amendment pertains to.
Comment by Rich Miller Wednesday, Jun 6, 18 @ 12:17 pm
No I don’t. She seems very credible, and I think the things she said happened, really happened. My point was this has been going on for a long time. I guess it takes some people longer to make the decision to come forward. I stand corrected. Tip of the hat to “Iggy” for calling me out on the earlier comment. I will wait before making my comments in the future. My apologies.
Comment by Retired Educator Wednesday, Jun 6, 18 @ 12:17 pm
Real time documentation is key with taking down creeps. Keep making notes, ladies.
This Illinois drama is just one act in a world-wide theater of the powerful victimizing the weak.
Be against this, with all your might. Support the search for the truth and a just resolution.
Pritzker needs to make a move.
Comment by cdog Wednesday, Jun 6, 18 @ 12:19 pm
==Just because a woman makes allegations/accusations does not mean they are true. We used to live in a time where you were innocent until proven guilty. As a woman myself I can honestly say I am scared raising a son in this time. Of course there are women telling the truth,but before you condemn someone wait for a fair investigation. There are two sides to every story. I feel as this is turning into a witch Hunt.==
Yes, please be concerned about your son. It’s everyone’s problem.
Comment by Who else Wednesday, Jun 6, 18 @ 12:26 pm
Enlightened Spirit–as long as you responsibly teach your son(s) never to say things like that in the public domain (especially when there are multiple witnesses) they will be safe from such accusations and grow up to be fine young men.
Comment by Responsa Wednesday, Jun 6, 18 @ 12:31 pm
@MacombMike
True, but the civil suit is gonna make a dent.
Comment by Blue Bayou Wednesday, Jun 6, 18 @ 12:31 pm
……scared raising a son….. I’m sure you are not doing anything to raise a son who would hurt others. and I know you don’t mean that as a version of “not all men.” but the problem is overwhelmingly from men. also, for fun, please read the twitter feed on the Miss America pageant decision to end the swimsuit competition. then number of actual men who are protesting the end of this objectivist activity tells lots about our society and the way women are regarded.
Comment by Amalia Wednesday, Jun 6, 18 @ 12:33 pm
Responsa-. That is not TRUE.
Any woman can make a false accusation out of spite, or other motivation and ruin someone’s life. Not all women are telling the truth.
Comment by Anonymous Wednesday, Jun 6, 18 @ 12:34 pm
–Real time documentation is key with taking down creeps. Keep making notes, ladies.–
And though you may not be thinking clearly at the time, muster the courage to tell someone you trust right away. That way it’s not just he said / she said. You have someone who can stand up and verify what you said in the moment.
Comment by Ron Burgundy Wednesday, Jun 6, 18 @ 12:39 pm
Yes there are bad men out there but there are also innocent men who are wrongly accused. I am just saying there should be a fair and honest investigation before you start jumping to conclusions.
Comment by Enlightened spirit Wednesday, Jun 6, 18 @ 12:39 pm
**I can honestly say I am scared raising a son in this time**
*eyeroll*
I too have a son. I teach him to not be a jerk. To respect people, men and women. And that no means no.
If he follows those guidelines, he’ll prob be ok.
Comment by SaulGoodman Wednesday, Jun 6, 18 @ 12:40 pm
Yep, that is true. My neighbor can accuse me of something, a co-worker, someone who I think is a complete stranger or even Rich.
However, if we either live in fear of that or teach our son’s (I have one too) to live in fear of that we have failed ourselves and our society.
Using that ‘well it might be false’ logic, we shouldn’t keep anyone in Jail (they might not have killed that guy)until after the trial.
If we view everyone via an ‘it could be a false accusation against me’ prism, then we are truly screwed.
Comment by OneMan Wednesday, Jun 6, 18 @ 12:43 pm
Where is the AG in all of this - why haven’t they started an investigation…. a daughter’s loyalty?
Comment by Yahdor Wednesday, Jun 6, 18 @ 12:44 pm
I feel with allegations like this it’s easy to have a quick response.
It would appear to me that the Speaker and others would know these stories to be true or not before they became public. The outcome of investigation in essence is wrapped up. Act now - the office knows the details.
Comment by Cool Papa Bell Wednesday, Jun 6, 18 @ 12:44 pm
I think some of the women who stood up behind Lang might be starting to feel a little foolish.
What do you think, Enlightened Spirit?
Comment by crazybleedingheart Wednesday, Jun 6, 18 @ 12:45 pm
All of the “allegations” sound like very bad jokes someone would make to a trusted colleague, not harassment. “Don’t show your pink bra” for example sounds like something Mapes would say exactly because he knows she dresses appropriately every day.
Comment by Michael Westen Wednesday, Jun 6, 18 @ 12:45 pm
Saul
as I tell my son, don’t be that guy
Comment by OneMan Wednesday, Jun 6, 18 @ 12:47 pm
Crazybleedingheart,. No I don’t. Just because man is accused doesn’t mean they all are. The women behind lang are entitled to their own thoughts and opinions.
Comment by Anonymous Wednesday, Jun 6, 18 @ 12:49 pm
Michael Westen, if it’s a joke that creates a hostile work environment, it’s harassment.
And that’s not all Tim is alleged to have said. I think the “knows how us girls on the second floor like to leave little to the imagination,” provides fuller context of what exactly type of joke this was.
Comment by Juice Wednesday, Jun 6, 18 @ 12:50 pm
@Yahdor, ignoring the fact that the press conference happened hours ago and you are already screaming about the “slow” response, what exactly gives the AG any kind of jurisdiction to do anything here?
Comment by Perrid Wednesday, Jun 6, 18 @ 12:54 pm
Schadenfreude (/ˈʃɑːdənfrɔɪdə/; German: [ˈʃaːdn̩ˌfʁɔʏ̯də] ( listen); lit. ‘harm-joy’) is the experience of pleasure, joy, or self-satisfaction that comes from learning of or witnessing the troubles, failures, or humiliation of another. There are probably a lot of people in Springfield who are experiencing this emotion right now.
Comment by Jen Wednesday, Jun 6, 18 @ 12:56 pm
Mapes should resign an hour ago. MM should say I don’t accept your resignation, you’re fired. Pritzker needs to take a walk on the speaker.
Comment by Rutro Wednesday, Jun 6, 18 @ 12:59 pm
Without discounting the lady’s story in any way, it’s very difficult for a Springfield cynic not to see these recent revelations as linked to a Rauner strategy. Can’t get at Madigan thru normal means, then pick away at peripheral targets to weaken him.
On the other hand, the old boys way of doing things in the Capitol is legendary and decidedly outmoded. The old timers and their mentees were steeped in an inappropriate culture and some of them have caught on to the fact that’s it’s a new day and a new way around here… and others are slow or unable to make that evolution in attitude and behavior. When the process runs its course, there will be obvious choices to make. It’s probably best for Mapes and Lang to ride the pine until the process runs its logical course.
Where’s Steve Brown today?
Comment by Anonymous Wednesday, Jun 6, 18 @ 1:04 pm
==The women behind lang are entitled to their own thoughts and opinions.==
Yes, including the respect of being critiqued for those thoughts and opinions.
Comment by crazybleedingheart Wednesday, Jun 6, 18 @ 1:04 pm
This rings true to me. The victim had everything to lose in coming forward.
I predict that Mapes will be ordered to resign or be otherwise reassigned by MJM before 4 p.m. today.
The compelled neutering of Rep. Lang is the template.
Comment by Jake From Elwood Wednesday, Jun 6, 18 @ 1:14 pm
Tim Mapes is not an innocent man. Anyone who is more than a casual observer of Springfield understands that he is the leader of a broken culture where fear and intimidation rule the day and Bullies are promoted. I know I was a bully for Mapes for many years. And I took significant abuse from him, but nothing like the folks in the well or some of my colleagues. The fact that MJM has him as COS, Clerk and Executive Director of the Party tells us all we need to know about how that whole office is approaching these issues.
Comment by Altgelds Ghost Wednesday, Jun 6, 18 @ 1:17 pm
=it’s very difficult for a Springfield cynic not to see these recent revelations as linked to a Rauner strategy.=
This is a ridiculous thing to say. Rauner has been on the scene for less than 4 years. The pall of harassment has hung over the capitol for decades.
Comment by Colin O'Scopy Wednesday, Jun 6, 18 @ 1:19 pm
Madigan—I am shocked, shocked, I tell you.
(I need Tim for the election cycle, and reapportionment. Where can I stash him?)
Tim—I am sorry, if anyone blah, blah…
(Can I keep my health insurance if I go on leave? Find a repub or two to dirty up. Fast)
Babs— I am in charge here
Sara? Sara?
Seriously, could this trigger a “Tristano effect” where more and more come forward?
Comment by Langhorne Wednesday, Jun 6, 18 @ 1:20 pm
To all men, and boys, and mothers of boys. I’m scared to be a female in the world. so let’s just restrict it to my political world. Democratic activists who touched me inappropriately, grabbed me, and all the way below the small of the back. Men whose names I encounter. A Democratic party and State official who is a big old bully. Men in politics who make comments about my appearance that are inappropriate. A suburban mayor who looked me up and down and commented on what I was wearing. thankfully, I’ve never been assaulted more than just the grabbing. I’m so much more afraid to be a female in the world than any male could be at accusations he hypothetically believes will come at him. Watch Dietland. Rage.
Comment by Amalia Wednesday, Jun 6, 18 @ 1:33 pm
Anyone see the AP story?
“House Speaker Madigan’s top aide accused of mishandling harassment”
Who wrote that headline?
Big difference between being accused of harassment vs mishandling harassment.
Comment by m Wednesday, Jun 6, 18 @ 1:34 pm
just called my husband on all of this. especially re, but, but, afraid to be accused/what about my boys comments, this is his advice….”don’t be a pig. don’t teach your kids to be pigs.”
Comment by Amalia Wednesday, Jun 6, 18 @ 1:42 pm
Just so I get this right, a campaign that barely beat an underfunded primary challenger. A team that had to fire a body man after one day, that tossed a bunch of responsible adults to bring in people from a ‘think tank’ that makes you wonder what sort of thinking goes on in that tank. This team has been playing some sort of long game with Democrats who have decided to now pop up and report things that happened to them in order to go after Madigan via ‘other means’
Just wanted to be sure I got that right.
If Team Rauner is capable of this sort of planning and chicanery they picked a heck of time and reason to start doing it.
Comment by OneMan Wednesday, Jun 6, 18 @ 1:51 pm
This isn’t Rauner. Rauner would screw it up if it was.
She’s not going to be the only one and that is why the Speaker either gets rid of Mapes right now or the Speaker risks going with him (already a risk). Mapes isn’t the only one in the office, but he set the tone that this was okay and so there will be more. The only way to correct the culture is to change it with new personnel.
One of the arguments about Madigan over the years is his stubborn nature leads to his organization not changing with the times. I think that argument is finally being realized.
Comment by ArchPundit Wednesday, Jun 6, 18 @ 1:53 pm
=Where is the AG in all of this - why haven’t they started an investigation…. a daughter’s loyalty?=
You must new to state government and you have the AG’s role backwards. The AG has a long history of defending the accused big shots in state government all the way, even in the face of credible allegations. See Rutan v State of IL, also see any recent whistlblower or non-sexual workplace harrassment/retaliation case v IL.
Comment by Duopoly (60% chance of being blocked) Wednesday, Jun 6, 18 @ 1:54 pm
===If Team Rauner is capable of this sort of planning and chicanery they picked a heck of time and reason to start doing it.
Exactly, my comment pointing out the incompetence of Rauner and team is in moderation (I’m sure for a word or something) but I made the similar point.
This isn’t an outside attack. It’s women tired of living through this kind of behavior who have shown the Speaker a lot of loyalty. Will he demonstrate it back.
Comment by ArchPundit Wednesday, Jun 6, 18 @ 1:55 pm
he gone
Comment by Anonymous Wednesday, Jun 6, 18 @ 2:51 pm