State Representative Mike Nearman has been asked to resign after it became known that he had allowed protestors into the Oregon State Capitol building on December 21. Nearman responded to the request with terms he would adhere to in order to be allowed to stay.
He would agree to not allow “any unauthorized personnel into the capitol.” He also agreed to return his 24-hour access badge, and provide 24-hour notice to the Legislative Equity Office prior to any trip to the capitol.
House Speaker Tina Kotek has already stripped Nearman of his committee duties for this upcoming session, and has fined him $2,000 for damages done by the protesters. Kotek also filed a formal complaint against the Republican which could lead to his expulsion.
Surveillance footage shows Nearman leaving the capitol building at 8:30 a.m. and letting protesters associated with Patriot Prayer into the building.
Kotek said on Monday, “As we tragically saw last week during the insurrection at the United States Capitol, the consequences could have been much worse had law enforcement not stepped in so quickly. His actions have created immense fear among legislators and Capitol staff. I believe he should resign immediately because he has already breached the public trust and endangered our ability to safely conduct the people’s business.”
By Sally K Lehman
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