(BLOOMINGTON) – Monroe County Commissioner Amanda Barge is stepping down from her post after being accused of sexual harassment by a former county contractor.
Monroe County Commissioner Amanda Barge said Monday she will resign from the board of commissioners on April 15. She said in a statement that she “struggled mightily with this decision” following the sex harassment allegations.
Former county contractor Brandon Drake alleged Barge sexually harassed him for more than a year and ultimately played a significant role in forcing him out of his job and professional community. She has denied the allegations.
The Monroe County Democratic Party asked for Barge’s resignation stating – “Our Democratic Party values include holding elected officials accountable and to ensure that they are transparent and have the trust of our community,” the statement reads. “Commissioner Amanda Barge’s alleged actions are incompatible with public office and the Indiana Democratic Party’s platform.”
Barge suspended her mayoral campaign on March 26, less than a day after the allegation became public, but her name will still appear on the ballot if Barge receives more votes than incumbent Mayor John Hamilton in the primary. She will have until July 15 to withdraw from the November municipal election. The Democratic Party also asked she not accept the nomination.
Black Lives Matter Bloomington along with Monroe County NOW, the Bloomington Solidarity Network and Indivisible Bloomington and Ninth District Indiana have issued similar statements requesting Barge resign.
