After reporting about a now-resigned state representative and allegations that Illinois House Speaker Emanuel “Chris” Welch may have mishandled accusations against the lawmaker, new questions are being raised about the speaker’s own behavior, particularly toward women on staff.
The Chicago Tribune reported details last week from an unnamed former staffer of former Rep. Harry Benton, D-Plainfield, who accused the lawmaker of sexual harassment in 2023.
Questions arose as to why Welch didn’t take action on the complaint made to his office until a second woman, this time a lobbyist, reached out with her own complaint about Benton this year.
The staffer, a previous intern for the speaker, also shared evidence of Welch interacting with her on social media in ways that made her feel uncomfortable.
Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker was asked Wednesday if he has confidence in Welch following the recent reporting. Pritzker signaled that Welch is listening to his caucus and explaining himself, though only behind the scenes for now.
The House Republicans released a new advertisement Wednesday targeting Welch, alleging that the staffer in the recent reporting is just one example in a pattern of behavior.
Mark Carvers, political director of the Illinois House Republican Organization, said in a statement that the new ad against the speaker would run online through the end of the week.
Story from Illinois Radio Network
Comments