IDP calls on fellow Republicans to condemn dangerous comments 

DES MOINES – Iowa Congressman Steve King has denied that sexual harassment exists in his latest defense of presidential candidate Herman Cain. This week King argued that sexual harassment is “a terrible concept, to define an action by the perception of the perceived victim.” King also recalled attending a sexual harassment training, which he claimed was a waste of time.

“It’s shocking that Steve King would suggest sexual harassment does not exist,” said Iowa Democratic Party Chairwoman Sue Dvorsky. “Far too many Iowans have been victims of sexual harassment, and they deserve a representative who will take this issue seriously. Steve King needs to apologize and I urge his fellow Republicans to condemn his dangerous and appalling comments.”

King has previously criticized other protections on women in and out of the workplace. He voted against the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act and even criticized the Violence Against Women Act, arguing that it interferes with marriage [Draft Rules Committee transcript, 9/27/05]. Recently, King also came under fire for reminiscing about a time when “you had to be a male property owner in order to vote.”

“Arguing that sexual harassment doesn’t exist only furthers the problem and decreases safety in the workplace. There should be no question that it exists and that we must remain committed to protecting both women and men from harassment,” added Dvorsky.

King Heads to Texas for Cain-Gingrich Debate

DES MOINES – Steve King is back on the road, keeping his attention directed at the Republican presidential candidates instead of on his constituents in Iowa. It was announced yesterday that King would head to Texas to moderate a Lincoln-Douglas style debate between GOP hopefuls Herman Cain and Newt Gingrich, the latest in a string of hyper-partisan appearances.

“Looking at Steve King’s priorities, it’s clear that he is unwilling to put Iowa first,” said Iowa Democratic Party Chairwoman Sue Dvorsky. “Instead of facing the tough questions from Iowans who want to know why Steve King voted against disaster aid or why he thinks health care should be harder for women to access, he’s chasing after Herman Cain and Newt Gingrich.”

King will moderate a November 5^th debate in Houston between Newt Gingrich and Herman Cain. This year, King has already traveled to South Caroline to moderate a Tea Party debate and to Michigan to campaign for Rep. Pete Hoekstra.

“Steve King has yet to produce results for his district. Iowans deserve someone who will put partisan politics aside and go to work for them in Washington,” added Dvorsky.

More information about Steve King’s travel across the country to support Tea Party Republicans, visit NotWorkingForIowa.com/KPS.