The following email was sent out to House Democratic Caucus members on Friday, May 4th regarding recent accusations of inappropriate behavior against state Representative David Sawyer. In response to these accusations, last month 17 Pierce County politicians signed a letter asking Rep. Sawyer not to run for re-election. 

Dear HDC members –

As you know, the House contracted with an independent investigator in March to review allegations that Representative David Sawyer violated the respectful workplace policies of the House. That investigation is nearing conclusion and we anticipate its completion by the end of the month. While we had hoped the investigation would have been done sooner, we recognize the need for thoroughness.

HDC leadership learned today that the investigator has confirmed evidence supporting some allegations. We discussed the preliminary findings and decided that the caucus needs to take initial formal action.

The HDC Committee on Committees will meet at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, May 9, in the HDC Caucus Room, followed by a meeting of the full caucus at 1 p.m. The Committee on Committees will consider a recommendation from leadership to suspend Representative Sawyer as Chair of the Committee on Commerce & Gaming pending the conclusion of the investigation. Pursuant to caucus rules, that recommendation will then be submitted to the full caucus for confirmation.

We apologize for the short notice and recognize this will present a scheduling challenge for many of you but would appreciate your attendance.

Sincerely,

HDC leadership

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