On Monday, the 18th of December, Senator Ben Cardin expressed his displeasure regarding a recently surfaced video that depicted a former staff member engaging in inappropriate sexual behavior within the Senate committee hearing room.
Cardin opted not to elaborate on the specifics of the staffer and the incident. Nevertheless, he conveyed his dissatisfaction, stating to reporters that he viewed it as a betrayal of the trust he had placed in the former employee.
Conveying profound disappointment, Cardin expressed his feelings of dismay and betrayal, describing the situation as tragic. He acknowledged the anger and frustration it generated among many and expressed concern about the potential impact on both Senate and regular staff.
The Maryland Democrat, Cardin, chose not to disclose whether the staffer was terminated, emphasizing multiple times that the individual is presently not a Senate employee. Cardin also refrained from revealing the staffer’s name and did not provide information about any disciplinary issues before the leaked video surfaced.
Cardin conveyed that he had no additional information on the matter, clarifying that it falls under personnel issues and investigations are currently underway. He also mentioned that he had not communicated with the ex-staffer and highlighted the absence of an apology in the situation.
The video capturing two individuals involved in inappropriate activity was filmed in Hart 216, a room renowned for Senate Judiciary Committee meetings and notable events, including Supreme Court nomination hearings and the 9/11 Commission. The Capitol Police have indicated that they are in the ongoing process of investigating the video but, as of Monday evening, have not provided any new updates to report.
When questioned about the ongoing investigations into the incident, Senator Amy Klobuchar, a member of the Judiciary Committee, informed reporters that Cardin and his staff are handling the matter and confirmed that the individual’s contract has been terminated.
Adding a touch of humor to the situation, other lawmakers chimed in. When reporters approached Cardin on the Senate floor, Sen. Joe Manchin playfully reprimanded those observing, stating, “Leave the good-looking man alone.”
Senator John Kennedy, a member of the Judiciary Committee, inquired whether the Senate presently locks its doors. Upon being informed that they do, he responded with a simple “Thanks.”
