U.S. Congressman John Conyers maintains his innocence against sexual harassment accusations and says he will not resign. That’s according to a statement Conyers released via his new lawyer late Wednesday.
Conyers has previously acknowledged a $27,000 legal settlement with a former staffer. He says the settlement was a way to avoid a lengthy, expensive lawsuit.
The woman alleged Conyers fired her because she rejected his sexual advances.
Now, the House Ethics Committee is investigating the allegations and whether the settlement violated House rules.
BuzzFeed also published affidavits from former staff members who said they had witnessed Conyers touching female staffers inappropriately or requesting sexual favors.
Democrats are not exactly rallying around Conyers, a civil rights movement legend. The Detroit Democrat is the dean of the House, its longest serving member.
Some have called for him to resign, while others have suggested he step down from his powerful position on the House Judiciary Committee.
Conyers’ attorney says he’ll hold a press conference to address the allegations after the holiday.
