WASHINGTON _ Katie Hill, a freshman Democrat from California, told colleagues Thursday that she is leaving because of a double standard for female politicians.
"The forces of revenge by a bitter, jealous man, cyber exploitation and sexual shaming that target our gender, and a large segment of society that fears and hates powerful women, have combined to push a young woman out of power and say she doesn't belong here," Hill said during her final House floor speech. She resigns Friday.
Her decision came following publication of nude photos of her and allegations that she had romantic relationships with congressional and campaign subordinates.
"I am leaving because of a misogynistic culture that gleefully consumed my naked pictures, capitalized on my sexuality and enabled my abusive ex to continue that abuse, this time with the entire country watching," Hill said.
Hill acknowledged having a relationship with a campaign staffer but denies having had one with a congressional aide. In a video statement Monday, she blamed her estranged husband and a campaign by "the right-wing media and Republican opponents" for the allegations against her.
Her fall comes less than a year after she was elected to Congress in a district long held by the GOP. Now Republicans see a chance to win back the seat.
