Seventeen Pierce County politicians have sent a letter to Representative David Sawyer asking him not to seek reelection. The letter comes after eight women accused Sawyer of crossing professional boundaries and engaging in inappropriate behavior. Last week, the 29th Legislative District Democratic Party Organization, by a 9-8 vote, also asked Sawyer to either step down or agree not to run for reelection.
After the accusations, and in response to the resolution calling for his resignation, Sawyer said he believes he has conducted himself lawfully and professionally and will continue to run for his seat.
In part, the letter reads:
“If we remain silent, waiting for you to do the right thing, we would confirm the societal message that women are no taken seriously when they speak up.
We also have a duty to the communities that we serve. Your actions have significantly compromised your ability to adequately represent our shared jurisdiction’s constituents.
It is therefore our obligation to tell you that we cannot support you in another run for the Legislature. We ask that you take responsibility for your actions and not seek reelection at this time.”
The letter is signed by Representatives Jinkins, Fey, and Kildruff, as well as Senator Darneille. Congressmen Derek Kilmer and Denny Heck joined five members of the Tacoma City Council and Tacoma Mayor Victoria Woodards in signing the letter as well.
You can read the full letter here.
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