Meehan to retire amid harassment scandal

WASHINGTON—U.S. Rep. Patrick Meehan, R-Pa., said Thursday he would not seek reelection this year amid a sexual harassment investigation. “After consultation with my wife, Carolyn, and with my three sons, and after prayerful reflection, I write to inform you that I will not seek reelection to the United States Congress for the 7th Congressional District in 2018,” Meehan wrote Thursday in a letter to his campaign chairman obtained by The Philadelphia Inquirer. Meehan drew scrutiny Saturday when The New York Times reported he settled an office sexual harassment charge for an undisclosed amount of taxpayer dollars. Meehan admitted to the payout but called it a severance package and not a settlement with the female staffer. In interviews after the report, Meehan explained he has a “deep affection” for the former aide but denied he ever touched her inappropriately. Shortly after the Saturday report, GOP leaders removed Meehan from his position on the House ethics panel and opened a review of the lawmaker’s conduct. His decision not to seek reelection makes Meehan the fifth congressman since November to announce retirement or resignation amid sexual misconduct accusations.