Rep. Nolan Faces Questions Over Staffer Dismissed For Harassment

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) — Minnesota Rep. Rick Nolan is facing questions about his handling of a former top staffer accused of harassing and groping young female interns.

Longtime former legislative director Jim Swiderski was repeatedly accused of inappropriate conduct and groping, according to MinnPost. He was allowed to leave the office rather than being fired in 2015 and was later briefly hired to work on Nolan's 2016 campaign.

Nolan told MinnPost that "in hindsight" he should not have hired Swiderski for his campaign.

Nolan did not respond to a message from the Associated Press. A cell phone number connected to Swiderski did not accept voice mails.

The matter could affect Minnesota's close three-way Democratic primary for governor. Nolan isn't seeking another term in Congress but is instead a lieutenant governor candidate.

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