Ohio Republicans apologize for crude remarks at going-away party
COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) — Two Republican state lawmakers apologized on Friday for offensive remarks they made during a top House staffer’s going-away party that made light of recent sexual misconduct scandals and disparaged female lawmakers.
State Rep. Bill Seitz, of Cincinnati, and state Sen. Matt Huffman, of Lima, separately expressed regret for vulgar and derogatory jokes cracked on Tuesday at the farewell celebration for House Chief of Staff Mike Dittoe. Their remarks came less than a week after the House completed newly mandated sexual harassment training.
Seitz, a veteran lawmaker known for his oratory, issued an open letter overnight Thursday to House Speaker Clifford Rosenberger and fellow House members saying he regretted any shame, distress or embarrassment he caused with his comments. Among other things, he maligned GOP state Rep. Candice Keller and former state Rep. Diana Fessler with name-calling and suggestive and sexist jokes.
“My words were irresponsible as a member of this esteemed institution and as a member of House leadership,” wrote Seitz, the House majority leader.
Huffman apologized for remarks including a vulgar term for female genitalia.
“I understand why people at the event were offended, and I apologize,” Huffman said in a statement released through Senate leadership on Friday. “I am truly sorry.”
The event, styled as a roast and offering an open bar, was held at the posh Athletic Club in downtown Columbus. About 100 legislators, lobbyists and staff members attended. Keller was not there, but at least one other female House member walked out because the proceedings got so vulgar. Seitz fell afterward and broke his ankle.
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