Johnson, Jeffries Launch Bipartisan Task Force on House Sexual Misconduct

House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., and Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, D-N.Y., announced a bipartisan task force Wednesday to reform how the House of Representatives addresses sexual misconduct allegations. Initially reported by CBS News' Nikole Killion, the initiative targets cumbersome reporting mechanisms that have long deterred victims, particularly young female staffers, from coming forward. The task force is co-chaired by Republican Rep. Kat Cammack of Florida, chair of the House GOP Women's Caucus, and Democratic Rep. Teresa Leger Fernández of New Mexico, chair of the Democratic Women's Caucus. Johnson told Killion the panel's top priority is developing whistleblower protections to foster a safer environment. "There's a concern that female staffers, for example, are intimidated to report," Johnson said, pledging swift action. Jeffries echoed the support, stating leaders are finalizing logistics for the bipartisan effort. The announcement comes amid heightened scrutiny following the recent resignations of two House members: Democrat Eric Swalwell of California and Republican Tony Gonzales of Texas. Both faced potential expulsion votes over unrelated ethics issues, amplifying calls for better misconduct protocols. Leger Fernández emphasized survivor-centered reforms in a statement, vowing to expedite reporting, simplify processes, and expand training resources. "We will advocate for bipartisan reforms to ensure staff and survivors are prioritized," she said. The task force builds on prior Democratic Women's Caucus efforts and responds to widespread dissatisfaction with Congress's opaque handling of claims. This partnership marks a bright spot in a divided Congress, with outlets including CNN, Axios, and The Washington Post confirming the development. As the panel convenes, it faces pressure to deliver tangible changes in a workplace long criticized for shielding powerful figures from accountability.