Madison – Two women accusing Rep. Josh Zepnick, D-Milwaukee, of sexual misconduct have joined with Democratic leaders calling on him to step down.
Democratic Party of Wisconsin chairwoman Martha Laning and Democratic leaders in the state Assembly urged Zepnick to resign immediately in light of allegations published last week by the Cap Times, a Madison based newspaper.
Two women allege that Zepnick kissed them without their consent at political events in 2011 and 2015. Assembly Republican leaders stopped short of calling for his resignation, but called Zepnick’s behavior “reprehensible” and “unacceptable.”
The Cap Times reports that Zepnick initially responded to the allegations by saying he had never been confronted about any such behavior, a few hours later Zepnick issued a statement last week apologizing for his behavior.
Zepnick’s statement said he had no recollection of the incidents and apologized for mistakes made during years of “irresponsible drinking.”
He said he will not resign.
A spokeswoman for Assembly Minority Leader Gordon Hintz, D-Oshkosh, said Democratic leaders are evaluating “all options” to respond if Zepnick does not step down.
Both women who shared their stories with the Cap Times requested anonymity, citing concerns with their current careers.
