Rod Hamilton is a state representative in Minnesota. He is retiring this year. In 2018, he was accused by a young woman of sexual misconduct, unwanted and nonconsensual touching and kissing. He had been much admired by her because of his advocacy for survivors of sexual assault. She is a sexual assault advocate. When there was a snowstorm that made it impossible for her to drive the more than 200 miles home, he offered to let her stay at his apartment and there he kissed her and touched her even though she had previously told him as a rape survivor that she did not like to be touched. She felt trapped and assaulted, though she makes clear that the misconduct was limited to touching and kissing.
He was removed from a committee chair position and apologized. He pointed out that his actions did not meet the legal definition of sexual assault, but recognized that it may feel differently to a sexual assault survivor. He was re-elected and is still serving though he retires when the new term begins in 2023.
- CBS News: “I felt trapped” Woman accuses state rep of sexual misconduct.
- MN House of Representatives: Ag committee chair suspended from leadership role after sexual assault allegation
- MN News Network: Rep. Hamilton responds to sexual assault allegations
Saint Cloud, Minnesota · Friday, April 27, 2018