Governor Tom Wolf has called on fellow Democrat, State Senator Daylin Leach, to resign due to the allegations from former staffers detailed today on Philly.com. The allegations include lewd speech and improper touching. One former staffer claims she was told to avoid being in an elevator alone with him.
Leach represents the 17th Senatorial District, which includes West Conshohocken and Plymouth Township.
The statement from Wolf reads:
This disturbing behavior is absolutely unacceptable. Senator Leach should resign. While he has been a leader on important policy issues, this conduct cannot be excused.
As I have said previously, this is not a partisan issue. The lack of adequate structure for victims to report this type of behavior and feel protected is inexcusable, and underscores that Harrisburg’s culture must change.
Leaders in the General Assembly, Republican and Democrat, must commit to real reform that protects victims.
Leach also released a statement denying the allegations, which was published in full by Philly.com. In it he blamed a “deep sea investigations” by his political opponents.
Here is how Twitter reacted today:
Wow — looks like the race to challenge Pat Meehan in my PA 7th just opened up a bit https://t.co/yYvZj539Wd
— Will Bunch (@Will_Bunch) December 17, 2017
I’m not affiliated with any congressional candidate and @daylinleach was once my biggest fan, until I spoke up in 2013/2014 about his behavior.
Sen. Daylin Leach responds: Alleged inappropriate touching ‘did not happen’ https://t.co/K6g61zEZ5N via @phillydotcom
— colleen kennedy (@by_CKennedy) December 17, 2017
Hey there, thanks for your bravery for going on the record with Daylin Leach. I’m disappointed in the State Dems reaction. I’m sure much worse is due to come out with others but as my rep his behavior is unacceptable and I am embarrassed by his statement today. #AubreyforCongress https://t.co/m9Infxah4G
— Laurie Actman (@PhilaEnergyGal) December 17, 2017
I have not talked to a single woman in the capitol who feels comfortable being around Daylin Leach since the rumors of today’s Philly Inquirer story began to swirl.
— Sean Kitchen (@RCPress_Sean) December 17, 2017
Daryl Metcalfe is gross. Daylin Leach using Daryl Metcalfe as a shield: No less gross. https://t.co/9cguRq25cv
— Joel Mathis (@joelmmathis) December 17, 2017
Shout out to the PA progressives who aren’t being silent about Daylin Leach – the silence of liberals who tweeted endlessly about R’s on this topic is deafening. Party affiliation shouldn’t be a shield for sexual harassment. Ever.
— Britt P (@brittaufait) December 17, 2017
Just this week I told coworkers I thought Daylin Leach was shady.
This is my way of letting you know that I’m totally a psychic and can see past, present and future.
Available for party readings ($250/hr) and calls ($4.99/min).— Brian P. Hickey (@BrianPHickey) December 17, 2017
Leach’s response to allegations is textbook victim shaming, whataboutism, and privilege. https://t.co/IA4XMkQTMW
— Audra J. Wolfe (@ColdWarScience) December 17, 2017
Daylin Leach must resign immediately. But Progressives must blacklist anyone in his office OR campaign staff that is taking part in the victimization of those coming out against him.
— Sean Kitchen (@RCPress_Sean) December 17, 2017