It also has refocused attention on recent legislative action that critics say not only disrespects women but is inherently racist. “We have to elect leadership that respects women and communities of colour, who have the fortitude to take action,” said Tennessee Democratic Chair Mary Mancini. In 2016, when the Capitol was rocked by the sex scandal involving former Republican Rep. Jeremy Durham, then-House Speaker Beth Harwell spearheaded an overhaul of the legislature’s sexual harassment policy. At least 10 Republican House members have said Casada should step aside. The same report revealed Cothren had used racist language in text messages years earlier, including at least one the speaker received.

Source: National Post May 18, 2019 12:32 UTC