ST. PAUL, Minn. — On Wednesday, March 19, Senator Justin Eichorn (GOP-Grand Rapids) was charged in federal court for soliciting a minor for sex.
Senator Lindsey Port (DFL-Burnsville)releases the following statement:
“I am horrified by the allegations against Justin Eichorn. If these charges are true, this is not a person who should hold power over anyone or be allowed to interact with the young people who visit the Capitol every day. The serious and predatory nature of these allegations show a risk to the community and are enough to disqualify him from office, and I believe he should resign.
It has been my privilege to work alongside staff and legislators to protect people at the Capitol from sexual harassment and abuse, and ensure everyone knows what they can do if they feel unsafe. The charges against Eichorn are a reminder that the work is not done.
These allegations are part of a larger story that does not stop at the state level. Abhorrent behavior should not be a partisan issue, however the Republican party has a notable habit of promoting politicians with a public history of sexual abuse. This enabling of sexual predators sends the message to survivors that their suffering is trivial and their abusers will not face repercussions. Condoning and supporting this behavior further entrenches us in a world where sexual assault and abuse are unremarkable, everyday occurrences, and allows predators to feel emboldened to prey on victims. Those with a history of sexual misconduct have no place sitting in our government in Minnesota or in Washington.
I do not accept this. We can and should do better, and I call on all of our partners to continue to sound the alarm against that injustice. I renew my commitment to this work every day, and my door is always open to anyone who feels unsafe at the Capitol, member, staff or visitor.”
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