House Ethics Committee Member Accused Of Settling Harassment Claim

A Pennsylvania Republican tasked with investigating sexual harassment in Congress has been accused of using thousands in taxpayer funds to settle a misconduct claim against him.

U.S. Rep. Patrick Meehan is being removed from the House Ethics Committee and will be investigated, according to a spokeswoman for House Speaker Paul Ryan.

A New York Times article out Saturday alleged Meehan had an unrequited romantic interest in a former aide. The report says Meehan "grew hostile" after the aide rejected him several times, and that prompted her to file a complaint and ultimately leave her position.

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He made the announcement the same day new allegations of harassment came to light in Congress.

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A spokesperson for Meehan denied the allegations and said the congressman has "has always treated his colleagues, male and female, with the utmost respect and professionalism."

The report says the settlement, which was for an undisclosed amount, was paid with Meehan's congressional office funds. Meehan has been asked to return the taxpayers' money.