BENTON, IL – State Representative Dave Severin (R-Benton) issued the following statement after the Legislative Ethics Commission released the Legislative Inspector General’s report into sexual harassment allegations involving former State Rep. Harry Benton.
“Public service is a privilege, and the conduct outlined in this report is completely unacceptable by any member of the Illinois House.
“This report also raises serious questions about Speaker Welch’s handling of these allegations. Staff members who come forward with claims of misconduct deserve to know their complaints will be taken seriously and handled fairly. Speaker Welch knew about these allegations dating back as far as 2023, yet he delayed action for years. That is unacceptable.
“Benton’s resignation should not be the end of this conversation. House Republicans have repeatedly pushed for ethics reforms to strengthen accountability and give the Legislative Inspector General the tools needed to independently investigate misconduct, including subpoena power. Illinoisans deserve better, and it is time for meaningful ethics reform.”