Illinois political parties key to purging sexual harassment

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) - A report on sexual harassment in Illinois politics issued last week paints a stark picture of the rough-and-tumble of the campaign trail that can breed harassment.

The Illinois Anti-Harassment, Equality and Access Panel 's report followed harassment and intimidation allegations that derailed the careers of several men in Illinois government this year as part of the #MeToo movement.

The report puts the onus on political parties to change the culture. It recommends that parties demand that campaign organizations have anti-harassment policies and provide sensitivity training. It says parties should develop procedures that allow complaints to be made and investigated by an independent body.

It also challenges the parties to elect women to half of all government offices. It says women should be recruited, trained for campaigns and supported when they run. Sign up to have a weekly roundup of our best 2018 election coverage delivered straight to your inbox: http://apne.ws/hzZJF7Z