Accused Elections Bigwig Claims Gays ‘Bothered’ Him in $5M Court Filing

New York: A high-ranking official at the Board of Elections, Michael Ryan, is in hot water. He’s accused of sexually harassing two employees and making some pretty offensive comments. In a recent court filing, he claimed that gay employees “bothered” him and suggested that heterosexuals were being discriminated against.

This all came to light after a report from the city’s Department of Investigation recommended Ryan’s firing. Instead, the Board of Elections decided to put him on unpaid leave for three weeks and require him to take sensitivity training.

Ryan’s past behavior includes making inappropriate comments and even trying to touch a female employee’s face, which made her very uncomfortable. Stephanie Jaquez, the former lawyer who filed the complaint, was not happy with the Board’s decision to give him just a slap on the wrist, especially during the holiday season.

She pointed out that Ryan’s actions were not just about being more sensitive; they were unlawful. Jaquez had reported his behavior last July but resigned shortly after. Her case is still in the early stages, but her lawyer believes they have a strong chance in court.

Ryan has publicly disputed the allegations but accepted the Board’s decision, stating it was in the agency’s best interest. The Board of Elections hasn’t commented on the situation yet, leaving many questions unanswered.