Senate Minority Caucus Calls for Sen. Riebe’s Resignation Following Independent Investigation into Discriminatory Practices

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Official release

Source material from Utah Senate. The wording below is the issuer’s statement.

Following an independent investigation into Sen. Kathleen Riebe, the Senate Minority Caucus voted to remove her from the caucus and called on her to resign from the Utah Senate. Minority Leader Sen. Luz Escamilla, Minority Whip Sen. Karen Kwan, Assistant Whip Sen. Jen Plumb, Sen. Stephanie Pitcher, and Sen. Nate Blouin issued the following statement:

“On November 2, the findings from a formal, independent investigation were released in response to an official complaint alleging workplace discrimination and harassment involving Sen. Kathleen Riebe in her capacity as a Utah State Senator. The behavior is deeply unsettling and will not be tolerated.

“The independent investigation concluded a pattern of conduct towards others that was likely motivated by race, national origin, or ethnicity. It also revealed statements concerning employment decisions involving individuals based on their sexual orientation or other protected characteristics.

“We take matters of workplace harassment and discrimination seriously. We have no tolerance for bias, aggressive behavior, or discriminatory practices. This is personal because it affects us, our families, our districts, and our communities. It’s about real people we love and represent.

“Every individual deserves to be treated with dignity and respect, and to feel safe and supported in the workplace. Harassment and discrimination in any form are unacceptable, especially from members of our caucus. This conduct demands meaningful accountability and action.

“Today our caucus voted to remove Sen. Riebe from the Senate Minority Caucus. Given the severity of these findings and the serious breach of trust they represent, we also call for her immediate resignation as a Utah State Senator.

“Our caucus has worked tirelessly to advance policies that promote diversity, respect, and belonging. We have fought to uphold every person’s dignity and protect against all forms of discrimination. We expect elected officials to uphold both the law and this institution’s standards. No elected official or leader is above accountability.”

Release text attributed to Utah Senate. Consult the official publication for any subsequent corrections or updates.