Vermont Progressive Party Stands with our Statehouse Leaders

Montpelier, Vermont — This morning Vermont Public released a developing story about the nature of the sexual harassment allegations against Rep. Bob Hooper going back at least 8 years. According to Vermont Public, Hooper responded to allegations by stating, “he was ‘sarcastic,’ a ‘jokester’ and that if he was guilty of anything, it was of being too familiar in settings that merit more formality.” 

The Vermont Progressive Party objects to the unreflective nature of this statement, which appears to demonstrate no remorse or understanding of the harm done to the women –  including Sens. Tanya Vyhovsky and Rebecca White, and Kate Lapp –  who have so bravely come forward to share their experiences. The response is not only tiresome but continues an all too common narrative where somehow the victims are responsible for their own experiences as targets of sexual harassment.

VPP Executive Director Heather Thomas reflected, “Every single woman I know, myself included, has experienced sexual harrassment and/or sexual assault in their lifetimes. The behavior is so pervasive and abhorrent that we need our statehouse leaders to be called to account for their unethical, harmful actions. In a perfect world, our elected officials would serve as moral leaders who exemplify the characteristics that support a future where women are truly treated as equals – with valid opinions and leadership skills – not as sexual objects. I stand with Sens. Vyhovsky and White in calling for accountability, and others who have not yet come forward with public statements or remain anonymous.”

Hooper continued to discount the unwelcomed contact by stating, “I think Tanya is seeking some kind of revenge.” Women want to be left alone to do the challenging work required to be collaborative, productive leaders in the House and Senate. It is time to shift our cultural norms to foster a fully inclusive, non-binary, and equitable statehouse.