Taylor Speaks At Organization Day As He Faces Claims Of Sexual Harassment

Source: WISH-TV / other

STATEHOUSE — On Tuesday, the new Indiana Legislature was sworn into office and conducted essential business for Organization Day as they prepare for the 2025 legislative session.

Though getting their ducks in a row was the main reason for Tuesday’s gathering, the dark cloud of sexual harassment accusations against State Sen. Greg Taylor weighed heavy over the day.

Taylor refused to answer any direct questions from reporters about the claims by three women, who came forward to the IndyStar saying that Taylor sexually harassed them over a period of several years.

“I have no message (to the women),” Taylor said briefly when asked about the claims.

Taylor did speak to the chamber of state senators gathered after being sworn in. He appeared to allude to the accusations in his speech.

“We have to recognize that when we fall short, we owe a debt to (Hoosiers),” Taylor said. “I will let my actions speak louder than any word I could say from this microphone.”

Taylor was re-elected the Democratic caucus chairman and the State Senate minority leader by his fellow Democrats on Monday. State Sens. J.D Ford and Andrea Hunley say they did not vote for Taylor. Senate President Pro Tem Rod Bray (R) says he’s spoken to Taylor about the situation.

“I’m extremely disappointed in Senator Taylor. I’ve expressed that to him,” Bray said. “We conduct ourselves at a much higher level than that in this chamber. As president pro tem I have the obligation to ensure that happens.”

Hunley was elected assistant minority leader, which State Sen. Shelli Yoder previously held. Yoder said she refused to take up that position again in protest of Taylor’s accused behavior.