ICYMI: “Unanswered questions shade Gov. Kim Reynolds’ ‘strong message’ on sexual harassment”

After Governor Kim Reynolds refused to disclose information about the abrupt sexual harassment-related firing of one of her top political allies and agency heads, Des Moines Register columnist Kathie Obradovich wrote “Reynolds wants Iowans to believe she’s showing strong leadership – but she’s asking us to take on faith that she’s only protecting the victims.”
See below for excerpts from her column or read it in its entirety HERE.
Unanswered questions shade Gov. Kim Reynolds’ ‘strong message’ on sexual harassment
By: Kathie Obradovich
“Gov. Kim Reynolds said Monday that she hopes her firing of a state agency head after allegations of sexual harassment will send “a really strong message” that such behavior will not be tolerated.”
“It might very well send a strong message – but there are so many unanswered questions that it’s difficult to know for sure.”
“This is the second high-profile case of sexual harassment in state government to come to a head during Reynolds’ administration.  It’s the first since the state was forced to pay $1.75 million in a settlement to a former Senate Republican caucus staff employee who was fired after she complained about sexual harassment in the workplace.”
“Reynolds, who is serving out the unexpired term of former Gov. Terry Branstad, is now running for election to the job. She can’t afford to look weak on sexual harassment, especially in this case. Jamison isn’t just an employee, he’s an old friend of the governor’s going back to her time as a county treasurer.”
“Her track record on the subject up to now has been mixed.”
“She refused to call for the resignation of Sen. Bill Dix, who approved Anderson’s firing, or any other Senate employee who was involved in the incident.”
“Most Iowans will accept that there are some details about this situation that should remain confidential – but not all details.”
“It seems like it should be possible for Reynolds to disclose how many accusers are involved without revealing who they are.  She could describe the time period the alleged harassment took place and whether it started or continued after Jamison took the state-mandated sexual harassment training course.”
“Reynolds said she didn’t engage in any fact-finding. She said Jamison is employed at will and the allegations were credible. But she hasn’t explained what made them credible.”
“Reynolds wants Iowans to believe she’s showing strong leadership – but she’s asking us to take on faith that she’s only protecting the victims.”