AUGUSTA, Maine (AP) 50-state analysis by The Associated Press finds that a Maine Democrat is at least the 30th lawmaker to leave office since January 2017 following claims of sexual misconduct.
Former Maine Rep. Dillon Bates quit this past week while denying claims of inappropriate relationships with students. The AP’s analysis finds at least 30 state lawmakers have resigned or been kicked out of office since the start of 2017.
An additional 25 lawmakers have faced repercussions such as the loss of party or committee leadership positions since last year. Numerous others have had allegations brought against them.
Bates hasn’t been charged with any crimes and has denied allegations published in an Aug. 3 Maine magazine article. The story alleged that the former teacher and coach had romantic relationships with high school students.
