U.S. Representative Kristi Noem says it’s horrifying to hear the stories of sexual assault and harassment.
She says now is a serious time in the country’s history to change the culture.
Kristi Noem says people have looked the other way for far too long when allegations of sexual assault or harassment arise.
Over the last several weeks, victims have come forward with stories and evidence of assault by Minnesota Democratic Senator Al Franken, and Alabama Republican candidate for Senate, Roy Moore. She says allegations against Moore are serious enough that he should step aside.
In the case of Senator Franken, she says that’s up to Democrats to look at.
“Everything needs to be treated the same. There shouldn’t be people who get a different pass on certain situations," Franken says. "I think it’s very serious, what he’s done in the past. That Senate and his leadership team and Senator Franken really need to evaluate himself and still see if he can contribute to the processes.”
Noem says bold leadership is needed to change the culture in Washington. She says there should be consequences for those who perpetrate harassment or assault.
She says allegations against President Donald Trump were evaluated and heavily vetted during the campaign.
“I don’t believe there were any actions that were discussed at that time," Noem says. "If some of those same allegations came forward, they’d have to be evaluated at that time.”
Noem says she’s never personally experienced assault or harassment, but she’s concerned for her daughters who are entering the workforce. She says these stories are all too common.