Denise Lite | Congress Votes for Self-Serving Secrecy

I read with shock that our U.S. House of Representatives, in a decisive 357-65 vote, chose to keep taxpayer-funded sexual assault settlements involving members of Congress secret. This vote is despicable. It shields elected officials from public scrutiny, undermines the very advocacy many of them claim to champion, creates distrust and leaves taxpayers in the dark (once again) about how their money is being used.

At its core, the votes are about accountability. When a private company settles a sexual harassment or assault claim, the use of non-disclosure agreements is often criticized for hiding misconduct and allowing perpetrators to continue operating without consequence. Remember Harvey Weinstein? Lawmakers themselves have frequently condemned such practices, campaigning that secrecy perpetuates abuse. Yet when it comes to allegations within their own ranks, those same lawmakers have chosen secrecy. I’ll say it again – despicable.

For years, most representatives have embraced the language of believing and supporting all victims of sexual misconduct. The phrase “believe all victims” became a rallying cry during campaign season and during national conversations about harassment and assault. It was meant to signal that victims of abuse should be taken seriously and systems of power should not protect the accused. But by voting to keep settlement details hidden, Congress is prioritizing the reputations of its members (and the institution itself)........

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