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Tom Reed canceling appearances in county

Tom Reed

One day after issuing an apology and announcing he would not be seeking re-election or running for state governor, U.S. Rep. Tom Reed canceled a number of local public appearances that were scheduled for this week.

Besides nixing a town hall meeting at the town of Harmony Highway Department set for late Monday afternoon, Reed also did not make a scheduled appearance earlier in the day at Chautauqua County Rural Ministry in Dunkirk. Additionally, Reed’s office informed the Chautauqua County Chamber of Commerce he is postponing his question-and-answer session that was to take place at noon virtually on Friday.

Reed’s quiet manner started last Friday morning when The Washington Post detailed an alleged sexual misconduct between the Corning Republican and a former insurance lobbyist in 2017 while in a Minneapolis pub following an ice-fishing outing. On Sunday, his apology — that announced plans to retire after his current term — sent shock waves through the state and across Washington.

Later that evening, state Republican Chairman Nick Langworthy commended Reed for “taking real accountability for his actions.”

“I believe he has made the right decision and I hope that this can bring some peace for Ms. (Nicolette) Davis, who made very serious allegations that deserved to be heard,” Langworthy said. “I wish Congressman Reed continued strength in his recovery from alcohol dependence and all the best for his family.”

Reed, who has been in the seat for 11 years, was sincere and humble in his statement. “Simply put, my behavior caused her pain, showed her disrespect and was unprofessional,” he said. “I was wrong, I am sorry, and I take full responsibility. I further apologize to my wife and kids, my family, the people of the 23rd District, my colleagues, and those who have supported me for the harm this caused them.”

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