Rep. Cornish to Resign Following Sexual Harassment Allegations

ST. PAUL, Minn. (KMSP) – Following allegations of sexual harassment, Representative Tony Cornish announced he will be resigning from his position at the Capitol by December 1.

His announcement comes about an hour after the lawyer for Sen. Dan Schoen announced Schoen’s plans to resign after sexual harassment allegations came to light.

“As a proud former peace officer and longtime champion for public safety, I am forced to face the reality that I have made some at the Capitol feel uncomfortable, and disrespected. To those individuals and specifically the unnamed lobbyist, I sincerely apologize for my unwelcome behavior.

“I would also like to apologize to God, my family, my constituents, and friends for the mistakes I have made.

“After having conferred with family members, friends and advisors, it is with deep regret tonight that I am announcing my intention to resign from the Minnesota House of Representatives. I do so after reaching an agreement in principle with the unnamed lobbyist that has been mentioned. The agreement is basically that I offer the enclosed apology, and resign from my office, on or before December, 1st 2017 and that we both provide each other with a mutual release of any claims against each other now and in the future.”

Statement from House leadership:

“We asked Representative Tony Cornish to offer his resignation from the Minnesota House of Representatives. Over the last week, it has become increasingly clear his resignation is the most appropriate course of action for him, his constituents, and our institution.

“As House leaders, we will continue to take concrete steps to combat misconduct at the legislature and ensure a safe and respectful work environment for legislators, staff, lobbyists, and the public.”