Delco Pol Calls For Zabel To Step Back After Harassment Allegations

DELAWARE COUNTY, PA — A Delaware County politician who represents the region in the Pennsylvania Senate is calling for embattled State Rep. Mike Zabel to step back from his duties in Harrisburg.

Stat Sen Tim Kearny (D-26) issued a statement on the allegations that Zabel sexually harassed a lobbyist in 2019.

"I am deeply troubled by the recent allegations brought forward against Rep. Zabel. Sexual harassment is unacceptable behavior that has been unfortunately widespread and tolerated for too long," he said. "Allegations must be taken seriously, and I believe that accusers are entitled to protections, whether that’s an elected official, advocate, or constituent."

Zabel was accused by Andi Perez of touching her leg during a meeting in Harrisburg.

Perez is a lobbyist for Service Employees International Union 32BJ and has called on the state legislature to expand its policy on who can file misconduct complaints, as non-members of the legislative body are not able to file complaints against members.

Two other women have made similar allegations

"Any infraction, misuse of power, or egregious behavior must be dealt with swiftly, and in a manner that protects the integrity of what it means to be a public servant," Kearny said. "While the House Committee on Ethics investigates these Allegations, Rep. Zabel must step back from his legislative duties."

Zabel in a letter to Pennsylvania House Democratic leadership said he was not planning to resign.

"After much thought and discussion, I have decided against resigning from the legislature at this time," he said in the letter.

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However, he did give up his seat on the Judiciary Committee and said he would not accept other committee assignments.

Zabel claimed an illness he has caused behavior he regrets in the letter.

He said he is being treated for the unspecified illness in an outpatient setting.

Republican State Leadership Committee Deputy Communications Director Mason Di Palma called the allegations "disturbing."

"Representative Zabel is no longer able to serve the people of his district effectively and should resign immediately," Palma said. "Democrats' silence on this matter shows that they are only concerned with holding onto power and not standing by victims of sexual abuse.”

Palma accused House Speaker State Rep. Joanna McClinton and Democratic leadership of ignoring the allegations in an effort "to protect their razor-thin majority."