Alaska lawmaker bucks party, refuses to quit amid claims
ANCHORAGE, Alaska (AP) — An Alaska lawmaker who has been accused by several women of inappropriate behavior refused to resign on Tuesday amid calls for him to leave his post from leaders of the House majority and the head of the state Democratic Party.
State Rep. Dean Westlake, who is recovering from heart surgery, said he sought the counsel of friends, family, native leaders, elders, and God when making his decision to remain in office. He announced his decision in a statement, and was confirmed by his staff.
"I want to once again apologize to any woman whom I have made uncomfortable with either my actions or words. I never intended to hurt anyone, but I understand now that I have. I am truly sorry for that, and I want to thank anyone who came forward. Doing so required strength and bravery," he said.
No one from the House majority was able to comment Tuesday evening, and a message left with the state Democratic party was not immediately returned.
Read more: http://www.wacotrib.com/news/ap_nation/politics/alaska-lawmaker-bucks-party-refuses-to-quit-amid-claims/article_ca1a7d3d-1276-5d40-a0ab-d4d570e83542.html