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  • Writer's pictureLogan Foster

OPINION: The Aftermath of Alleged Abuse: Indiana State Senator David Niezgodski's Alleged Sexual Harassment of His Female Staffer. What Now For the People of South Bend and the State of Indiana?

If very recent developments have flown under your radar, here's a brief summary: Redress South Bend brought to light alleged sexual harassment by Indiana State Senator David Niezgodski toward a female staff member. This revelation came through a press release and an article released on April 12, 2024, which you can access through our publication. Six days later, on April 18, 2024, the IndyStar provided an in-depth look at the alleged sexual harassment, further implicating Indiana State Senator David Niezgodski. On April 18th, the South Bend Tribune also published the IndyStar's article and WVPE published an original article on the subject as well. Later that day, it was also discussed on 93.5 MNC by "The Burning Truth" Host Casey Hendrickson at Length.


With the scandal now in the local, county, and state of Indiana public domain, dismissing Indiana State Senator David Niezgodski's alleged sexual harassment makes it impossible for voters to continue to put it under the rug or hide their heads in the sand. For years, those in power sadly remained inert, opting for silence over action.

"Those who remain silent are responsible". - Edith Stein

It's critical, in my view, to challenge those in Indiana State Senator David Niezgodski’s circle, including his donors and political allies, to sever ties and denounce their association with him due to this alleged sexual harassment. This stems from the gravity of the alleged sexual harassment, bolstered by Indiana State Senator David Niezgodski’s own communications, first-hand eyewitness accounts, and the aforementioned settlement paid to the victim, rendering this alleged sexual harassment compellingly credible.


Photographic evidence linking South Bend Mayor James Mueller with Indiana State Senator David Niezgodski incites further inquiry into the alleged sexual harassment.

Will South Bend Mayor James Mueller continue his practice of sending out voter alerts to the citizens of South Bend about candidates who have a history of domestic issues and/or harassment?
Will South Bend Mayor James Mueller refuse to associate with alleged abuser Indiana State Senator David Niezgodski as he refused to stand on a debate stage with his general election opponent, who reportedly had similar accusations leveled against him? Click Here for the Full Story
South Bend Mayor James Mueller needs to address his acceptance of $12,500 from Indiana State Senator David Niezgodski.

Given the longstanding rumors of the alleged sexual harassment scandal within their political circles.

These are just a few photos of South Bend Mayor Mueller with Indiana State Senator David Niezgodski.



Here's a rundown of recent contributions from Indiana State Senator David Niezgodski

  • South Bend Mayor James Mueller: $12,500.00

  • Sharon McBride - South Bend City Council President: $2,000.00

  • Rachel Tomas Morgan - South Bend City Councilwoman: $2,000.00

  • Shelia Niezgodski - South Bend City Council Vice President: $1,000.00

  • Canneth Lee - South Bend City Councilman: $1,000.00

  • Karen White - South Bend City Councilwoman: $1,000.00

  • Troy Warner - South Bend City Councilman: $500.00

  • Bianca Tirado - South Bend City Clerk: $850.00

  • Bill Redman - St. Joseph County Sheriff: $500.00

  • Maureen Baurer - Indiana State Representative: $1,000.00 For the full list of donors, visit https://www.transparencyusa.org/in/candidate/david-niezgodski

This prompts a pertinent question for recipients of Indiana State Senator David Niezgodski's contributions, such as South Bend Councilman and Pastor Canneth Lee — highlighted in campaign materials as "Strongly Endorsed By" — and the Indiana State Teachers Association (statistics on teachers suggest teachers are 74% female.) In light of these sexual harassment allegations, can these individuals and groups maintain their support for Indiana State Senator David Niezgodski?


David Niezgodski's Campaign Mailer Pictured With City Clerk Bianca Tirado. Please See Endorsements

Given the courageous action of the victim and her father, providing evidence of misconduct, the local and state community must confront the reality of Indiana State Senator David Niezgodski's alleged sexual harassment. The question remains: How can public figures justify continuing financial relationships and endorsements with Indiana State Senator David Niezgodski? Their continued association not only underscores complicity but also challenges our collective moral and ethical standards, reminiscent of the public's reaction to the Weinstein and Epstein scandals. The question of local accountability and action remains pressing.


Campaign Mailer Seated With Mayor Mueller's Staffers Shay Davis, Breana Micou & City Clerk Bianca Tirado
ORGANIZATION CALLS FOR INDIANA STATE SENATOR NIEZGODSKI'S RESIGNATION

The post reads: "As an organization that advocates for accountability and transparency in our government, MADVoters is very disappointed by the news of State Senator David Niezgodski's alleged sexual misconduct against a former employee, and the subsequent lack of transparency from state and party officials. We call upon Indiana Democratic Party, Indiana Senate Democratic Caucus, and the St. Joseph County Democratic Party to take action. We will always speak up for the importance of transparency to ensure that We the People are represented by officials dedicated to serving their constituents and their offices with integrity. For more information and resources regarding sexual harassment in the workplace, please visit https://www.in.gov/.../workplace-harassment-information/"



UPCOMING FUNDRAISER FOR NIEZGODSKI

Niezgodski Fundraiser Invite

Consider the impressive roster of high-profile contributors rallying behind Indiana State Senator David Niezgodski for his forthcoming fundraiser:

  • South Bend Mayor James Mueller

  • South Bend Common Council Member Troy Warner

  • St. Joe County Sheriff Bill Redman

  • Indiana State Senator Rodney Pol, District 4

  • IBEW 153

  • Frank Jullian

  • Caitlin Smith

These distinguished names, from individual patrons and elected officials to esteemed organizations, purposefully chose to offer their donations under the designation of “sponsorships w/ recognition,” spotlighting their public support. The intriguing aspect here is the notable presence of elected officials in the donor list. Given that the elected officials listed on this donor list are remunerated through taxpayers' money, their support extends beyond personal endorsement—it leverages their positions and indirectly involves public funds. This raises a significant question about the dynamics of political endorsement and accountability. Should we, as a community, reassess the implications of such endorsements, especially when considering the gravity of endorsing figures like Indiana State Senator David Niezgodski? If the scenario were to involve controversial figures such as Bill Cosby or Harvey Weinstein, would the community's perspective shift? It's time for a public discourse, an opportunity for the electorate to voice their stance on the propriety of these endorsements. Silence and inaction are not options, especially when it comes to allegations of sexual harassment. We must demand transparency and integrity in how public figures utilize their office and influence in political endorsements.

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