Larson Statement on Esty’s Decision Not to Seek Re-Election

Washington, D.C. – Rep. John B. Larson (CT-01) released the following statement after Rep. Elizabeth Esty (CT-05) announced that she will not be seeking re-election in 2018:

"Elizabeth Esty's career in public service has been marked by commitment and dedication. The story of Anna Kain was heartbreaking. Elizabeth has acknowledged and regretted how she handled that situation. In what I know was a difficult decision for her, she has decided not to seek re-election. Her commitment now is to make the workplace safe for all employees, and that is what all of our commitments should be. No one should ever feel unsafe in their workplace nor should they ever have to tolerate abuse and harassment. There needs to be strong protocols put in place that ensure that when incidents do happen, victims are put first, not the abuser.

"I look forward to working with my friend and colleague for the remainder of her term. My heart goes out to her and her family, but I know she will continue to do what she has always done, and lean into this issue as she has on gun violence and a myriad of other issues. My heart also goes out to Anna and all victims of workplace harassment and abuse. This type of behavior is not acceptable in Congress or in any workplace and I will continue to work to change that."

###