Virginia Democrat Bobby Scott Accused of Sexual Harassment
Former Congressional Black Caucus Foundation fellow previously backed out of a press conference
A former fellow with the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation on Friday accused Virginia Rep. Robert C. Scott of sexually harassing her.
M. Reese Everson, who worked in Scott’s office during her fellowship in 2013, made the accusations during a press conference.
The congressman inappropriately touched her and asked her to flirt with him on a trip to California, she said. Before that, she had ignored two instances where Scott had inappropriately touched her, she said.
“I realized I had to get the heck out of there,” she said. “I tried to run to another office headed up by a female member with a female staff.”
Scott’s spokesperson was asked about Everson’s comments on Friday. He declined to comment on what she said.
Everson said at the time of the alleged harassment, she went to the office of Rep. Maxine Waters of California for help. The staff, she said, questioned her claims.
Waters’ spokesperson did not return a request for comment.
After the harassment, Everson said, “I was retaliated against, I was wrongfully terminated and I was blackballed and blacklisted.”
Everson said she has documentation about the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation that dates back as early as May 2013. She said she could provide the documentation, but that was not made available on Friday.
Last month, Scott confirmed that Everson had worked for him. At that time, Scott said he was aware of “no credible complaints” that Everson had raised against him or other members of Congress.
Theresa Thompson, who worked for Scott as a legislative assistant, attended the press conference and defended her former boss.
“I can tell you there was never a whisper, a hint a wink or nod,” she said. “The truth will come out.”
Everson had previously planned to come forward before in a press conference last month but backed out at the last minute.
“I was unable to make it the last time because I couldn’t find the courage,” she said.
After initially saying he would not represent her anymore, lobbyist Jack Burkman was on hand to represent Everson.
Everson previously did lobbying for his firm, JM Burkman & Associates.
“We call today for Congressman Bobby Scott to resign immediately,” Burkman said. “We call upon Speaker Ryan and Leader Pelosi to commence an ethics investigation.”
Burkman has been accused of dabbling in right-wing conspiracy theories, but Everson defended working for him.
“To find Mr. Burkman and for him to provide me with substantive work, to me it’s just a no-brainer,” she said. “He’s been a blessing.”