Michigan state Rep. Steve Marino, R-Harrison Township, was stripped of his committee assignments and is under investigation after being accused of making threats toward fellow lawmaker Mari Manoogian, D-Birmingham, House Speaker Jason Wentworth confirmed Wednesday.
“None of us are immune to a volatile relationship, regardless of our career,” Manoogian said in a statement.
“The unfortunate reality is that many people in our society have experienced domestic abuse, which often comes from someone we would never expect,” her statement read. “It can happen right here in our legislature, where abuse of power and threats to ruin a colleague’s reputation, as well as threats of public shaming, can be used to intimidate fellow members of the legislature.
The specific nature of the threats was not made public, and Manoogian asked for privacy “as I take steps to ensure my safety while I continue to represent my district and do the work of the people.”
Related: Michigan lawmaker mysteriously stripped of committee assignments
Wentworth, R-Farwell, said he took immediate action to remove Marino from committee assignments upon learning of the situation and said the House will work with the Michigan State Police to investigate the allegations.
“I will always prioritize the safety of state legislators and those who are serving their community at the state Capitol,” Wentworth said. “The House will continue to assist with the Michigan State Police investigation, take every precaution to ensure Rep. Manoogian’s safety, and ultimately allow the legal process to play out.”
Marino was abruptly removed as chair of the House Commerce and Tourism Committee and also lost his position on the Local Government and Municipal Finance Committee this week. Manoogian also serves on the Commerce and Tourism Committee.
Rep. Pauline Wendzel, R-Watervliet, has replaced Marino as the committee’s chair.
Marino, a third-term lawmaker who represents Harrison Township and portions of Clinton and Macomb townships, has not responded to requests for comment about the situation.
House Democratic Leader Donna Lasinski, D-Scio Township, expressed support for Manoogian and urged people to respect her request for privacy.
“Our caucus is acutely aware of the challenges that come with being a female elected official and will not tolerate any threats of abuse, retribution and public embarrassment that are used to intimidate women,” she said in a statement.
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September 16, 2021 at 03:44AM
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Michigan lawmaker under investigation, accused of threatening Capitol colleague - MLive.com
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