WASHINGTON (Reuters) – The three top Democrats in the U.S. House of Representatives called on Democratic congressman John Conyers on Thursday to resign in light of the sexual harassment allegations he faces, but Conyers’ attorney said he was not thinking of stepping down.
House Democratic leader Nancy Pelosi said the allegations were “serious, disappointing and very credible” as she shifted away from comments four days ago in which she said Conyers, the longest-serving House member, was an “icon” who deserved due process.
“Zero tolerance means consequences for everyone,” she told reporters on Thursday. “The brave women who came forward are owed justice … Congressman Conyers should resign.”
Pelosi’s call was echoed by her second-in-command, Representative Steny Hoyer, and the No. 3 Democrat in the House, Representative James Clyburn. Like Conyers, Clyburn is known for his activism during the civil rights movement.
House Speaker Paul Ryan, the top House Republican, also said Conyers, who is 88 and has served since 1965, should step aside.
Congressman Conyers has not thought about resigning: lawyer
Reuters has not verified the allegations.
Republican and Democratic House members introduced a bill on Wednesday that would bar public funds from being used to settle sexual harassment claims against members and require previously made payments to be made public.
U.S. media have reported that Conyers used public funds to settle a claim with one of the women who had worked in his office.
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