GOP Nebraska Sen. Dan McKeon faces historic expulsion vote over sexual misconduct allegations

Nebraska lawmakers are facing a historic decision as they consider expelling Sen. Dan McKeon for alleged inappropriate behavior towards a legislative staffer. The accusation stems from a party last year where McKeon reportedly made a sexually-charged comment to the staffer and touched her inappropriately. If McKeon is expelled, it would mark the first time in Nebraska’s history that a senator has been removed from office in this manner.

The complaint against McKeon has brought attention to the issue of sexual harassment within state legislatures across the country. Since 2017, over 150 state lawmakers in 44 states have been accused of sexual misconduct, with some facing expulsion or resignation. The Nebraska Legislature’s Executive Board commissioned a report on the incident, which found that while McKeon’s behavior did not meet the legal definition of sexual harassment, it did violate the Legislature’s workplace harassment policy.

The report detailed the incident at the party where McKeon allegedly made a suggestive comment to the staffer about her vacation plans and patted her on the buttocks. Despite denying the touching initially, McKeon later admitted to the possibility but claimed it was not intended to be sexual. Following the complaint, McKeon was instructed not to attend social gatherings with staffers present, but he reportedly attended another event where the accuser was present.

McKeon’s response to the allegations has been mixed, with him referencing his name’s meaning in Hebrew and invoking religious beliefs when discussing the situation. He has declined to step down despite calls for his resignation from party leaders, including the Republican Governor. However, McKeon acknowledged that a vote for his expulsion could be close and seemed resigned to the possibility of being forced out.

The Legislature’s Executive Board will hold a hearing on Monday to discuss the resolution to expel McKeon, with a full Legislature vote potentially taking place as early as Tuesday. If McKeon is expelled, he would join a growing list of state lawmakers who have left office due to allegations of sexual misconduct. The decision on his fate will have significant implications for the future of the Nebraska Legislature and its approach to addressing workplace harassment.