Who is Nicolette Davis? Former lobbyist who accused Tom Reed of sexual misconduct is commissioned Army officer
Congressman Tom Reed announced he will not be running for any elected office in 2022 just two days after Nicolette Davis, a former lobbyist, leveled sexual misconduct allegations against him.
Reed, who made the announcement on Sunday, March 21, evening, was elected to Congress in 2010 and had vowed that he would serve only six terms, the sixth of which is currently underway.
"As I go forward, I will strive to be a better human being, continue to fight for what I believe in, and to make people’s lives better in any way I can. I hope this formal apology is just the start," he said in a statement, according to a WGRZ report.
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Davis recalled in a Washington Post article an incident that took place at a restaurant in Minneapolis in 2017. She was 25 and the congressman was 45 at the time. Davis, now a commissioned officer in the US Army, told the Post that Reed had rubbed her back, put his hand outside her blouse, and unhooked her bra strap.
According to her, the congressman also moved his hand to her thigh and was inching upward. Davis told the paper that she asked the person sitting next to her for help, and they eventually pulled Reed away from the table and out of the restaurant.
Reed, who serves as the Representative for New York's 23rd congressional district, declined to be interviewed on Friday, March 19, when the story was published. However, he did say that "this account of my actions is not accurate."
The congressman later issued a statement that began with an apology to Davis. "First, I apologize to Nicolette Davis. Even though I am only hearing of this matter as stated by Ms Davis in the article now, I hear her voice and will not dismiss her. In reflection, my personal depiction of this event is irrelevant," he said on Sunday.
"Simply put, my behavior caused her pain, showed her disrespect, and was unprofessional. I was wrong, I am sorry, and I take full responsibility. I further apologize to my wife and kids, my family, the people of the 23rd District, my colleagues, and those who have supported me for the harm this caused them."
Reed said he was struggling with alcoholism at the time of the incident and sought treatment for the same. “Second, I want to share that this occurred at a time in my life in which I was struggling. Upon entering treatment in 2017, I recognized that I am powerless over alcohol," he continued.
"I am now approaching four years of that personal lifelong journey of recovery. With the support of my wife, kids, and loved ones, professional help, and trust in a higher power, I continue that journey day-by-day. This is in no way an excuse for anything I’ve done. Consistent with my recovery, I publicly take ownership of my past actions, offer this amends and humbly apologize again to Ms Davis, my wife and kids, loved ones, and to all of you.”
In conclusion, Reed promised to atone for his past actions and urged others to seek help if they thought they needed it. “Third, I plan to dedicate my time and attention to making amends for my past actions. In addition to apologizing to those I have impacted, including Ms. Davis, I will be seeking to help those wrestling with addiction in any way I can," he said.
"To others who may be struggling the way I have, please know that by seeking help your life will be forever changed in an extremely positive way. Though the journey is hard please know the rewards are amazing and you are worth it.”
Reed had reportedly been considering a run for Governor of New York next year and had been largely critical of Gov Cuomo. He called for his resignation after several women came forward with allegations of sexual harassment and misconduct. Cuomo has strongly denied these allegations and is refusing to step down from office.
Responding to Reed's statement, New York GOP Chairman Nick Langworthy said he commended the congressman for "taking real accountability for his actions." He added, "I believe he has made the right decision and I hope that this can bring some peace for Ms. Davis, who made very serious allegations that deserved to be heard. I wish Congressman Reed continued strength in his recovery from alcohol dependence and all the best for his family."