Democrat Leader-Elect Ramon Alexander will not seek re-election in wake of harassment allegation

by | May 12, 2022

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Representative and Democrat Leader-Elect Ramon Alexander on Thursday announced that he will forego an attempt at seeking re-election for the fourth time following allegations of sexual harassment.

Michael Johnson Jr. on Tuesday claimed that he was improperly released from his duties as Associate Athletic Director at Florida A&M University (FAMU) in January, alleging that he was fired after reporting the wrongdoing of a relative of Alexander, who also works in the school’s athletics department, according to the Tallahassee Democrat.

Johnson filed a complaint with the Florida Commission of Human Rights in February, the Tallahassee Democrat reported, also alleging that Alexander swayed his power as a politician and figure at the school in order to protect employees that have been accused of wrongdoing or poor performance.

Alexander reportedly harassed and intimidated Johnson through means of phone contact and work visitations. Johnson additionally accused Alexander of sending him unwanted sexual materials, per the complaint.

Alexander put forth a statement this week admitting he had a relationship with Johnson but was never his employer or involved in personnel decisions at FAMU.

“Words will never fully describe how truly grateful I have been over these many years to represent and fight for my community in the Florida Legislature,” said Ramon on Twitter. “Meaningful public service has always been about making a significant difference in the lives of others without self-promotion, spectacle or fanfare.”

Alexander, who represents Florida’s Congressional District 8, was slated to serve as the future House minority leader. Now, state Democrats are left to scramble to elect someone new.

In a statement, Current Minority Leader Evan Jenne stated the Democratic caucus would soon meet to elect a new leader designated. The selected individual would then be set to take over the position in November when Jenne steps down.

“In the near future, our caucus will meet to elect a new Leader Designate to take over when I leave office in November,” Jenne said. “In the meantime, we will continue to focus on tackling the problems of the state and improving the lives of all Floridians.”

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