Assemblyman Vito Lopez to step down as head of Brooklyn Democratic Party
Veteran state Assemblyman Vito Lopez announced Tuesday he
will step down as head of the Brooklyn Democratic Party as he battles a sexual
harassment scandal.
Contrary to some rumors circling about, however, he has
vowed to remain in the State Assembly, despite being stripped of his seniority
and staffing budget.
“I am announcing that I will not be seeking the position
of party chair of the Kings County Democratic Party,” Mr. Lopez said in a
statement this afternoon. “The onslaught of character attacks has put enormous
emotional pressures on my family and close friends. I cannot sit by and allow
that to continue. My political history has been to fight through challenges and
political conflicts but, for the sake of loved ones and the Democratic Party,
it is important that I take this action.”
Mr. Lopez also reiterated his innocence in the sexual
harassment charges the State Assembly has found credible evidence of.
“I have never sexually harassed any staff and I hope and
intend to prove in the coming months the political nature of these
accusations,” he said. “I have worked tirelessly over the years to bring
important programs and services to the poor and working poor. This could not
have occurred without the support and time commitment of dedicated staff, many
of whom have benefitted from the positive work experience in the positions they
currently hold and in the subsequent careers that theyhave pursued.”
He continued, “I plan to continue to serve the residents
of the 53rd Assembly District and the borough of Brooklyn. With that objective
in mind, and with appreciation of the support that I have received in recent
days from so many friends, community and religious leaders, and political
leaders, I regrettably take this action. I would like to thank my many friends
and hope that the needs of the residents of this borough will continue to
receive the much needed attention that they deserve.”
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