Wes Goodman is the third Ohio state lawmaker to have resigned in less than a month and his story is sweeping the internet. The 33 year-old Republican state legislator was asked to leave by Clifford Rosenberger, who is the Speaker of the Ohio house.
Rosenberger released a statement to the press reading:
I was alerted to details yesterday afternoon regarding his involvement in inappropriate behaviour related to his state office. I met with him later in the day where he acknowledged and confirmed the allegations. It became clear that his resignation was the most appropriate course of action for him, his family, the constituents of the 87th House District and this institution.
This was all the information available for a short while, until news emerged that the inappropriate behaviour was that Goodman had sex with a man (not employed by the legislator) in his office.
Apart from being inappropriate to do at work, the politician is known for his strong Christian faith.
His Twitter bio (that is now protected) apparently reads: 'Christian. American. Conservative. Republican. Husband to @Beth1027'
His campaign website (now taken offline) also apparently reads:
Healthy, vibrant, thriving, values-driven families are the source of Ohio's proud history and the key to Ohio's future greatness. The ideals of a loving father and mother, a committed natural marriage, and a caring community are well worth pursuing and protecting.
Prior to this job, Goodman was an aide to the US Representative Jim Jordan who, amongst other things, attempted to block marriage equality in the District of Columbia.
The Columbus Dispatch reported that Goodman was seen having intercourse with a man in his own office and the observer then told the Chief of Staff Mike Ditto. Ditto in turn told Rosenberger.
Goodman released a statement apologising for his resignation, though the LGBT community was notably absent:
We all bring our own life struggles and our own tries into public life. That had been true for me, and I sincerely regret that my actions and choices have kept me from serving my constituents and our state in a way that reflects the best ideals of public service. For those whom I have let down, I'm sorry. As I move onto the next chapter of my life, I sincerely ask for privacy for myself, my family, and my friends.
There have been further reports that the legislator has pursued multiple men on Capitol hill, sending suggestive messages. The Washington Post also reported that Goodman has been accused of predatory behaviour, 'fondling' an 18 year-old male's privates when he was asleep.
Daisy Murray is the Digital Fashion Editor at ELLE UK, spotlighting emerging designers, sustainable shopping, and celebrity style. Since joining in 2016 as an editorial intern, Daisy has run the gamut of fashion journalism - interviewing Molly Goddard backstage at London Fashion Week, investigating the power of androgynous dressing and celebrating the joys of vintage shopping.
