COLUMBUS – Allegations of sexual harassment and inappropriate conduct continue to take a toll in the halls of the Ohio Statehouse.
Representative Wes Goodman (R-Cardington) has resigned due to what House Speaker Cliff Rosenberger called “inappropriate behavior” in announcing Goodman’s resignation Wednesday:
I was alerted to details yesterday afternoon regarding his involvement in inappropriate behavior related to his state office. I met with him later in the day where he acknowledged and confirmed the allegations. It became clear that his resignation was the most appropriate course of action for him, his family, the constituents of the 87th House District and this institution. –Speaker of the House Cliff Rosenberger (R-Clarksville)
No details were released but The Columbus Dispatch reported that the behavior did not appear to involve any members of the Statehouse staff.
Goodman released a statement expressing regret and apologizing for those he has “let down.”
We all bring our own struggles and our own trials into public life. That has been true for me, and I sincerely regret that my actions and choices have kept me from serving my constituents and our state in a way that reflects the best ideals of public service. For those whom I have let down, I’m sorry. –Rep. Wes Goodman (R-Cardington)
Rosenberger says a screening panel will be formed a new representative for the vacant seat.
Goodman becomes the latest state lawmaker or highly-placed official to resign amid accusations of inappropriate behavior.
Michael Premo, the chief of staff for Democrats in the Ohio Senate, resigned Monday from the post he has held since 2015 after facing allegations of “inappropriate conduct” toward other employees.
Senate minority leader Kenny Yuko says he asked for Premo’s resignation after finding that concerns raised recently about Premo’s behavior were credible. In a statement, Yuko says he won’t share details of the allegations to respect the privacy of people who raised those concerns.
Cleveland.com reports that Premo didn’t return a call seeking comment Monday. The Twitter account where he was known to be outspoken appears to have been suspended or deleted.
A spokesman for the Senate president tells The Cincinnati Enquirer that no complaint has been filed about concerns over Premo’s behavior.
Findlay Republican Sen. Cliff Hite resigned last month and admitted to inappropriate behavior with a female staff member.