Statement from the Warren County Democratic Committee on the Misogyny and Harassment by Phillipsburg Council President Directed at Women in Leadership Roles

“The public testimony of Phillipsburg Councilwoman Danielle DeGerolamo leaves us with a deeper understanding of the specific ways women are disenfranchised and pushed out of the political forum and process in New Jersey. And while this is not an issue that is unique to New Jersey, it is particularly pervasive here. As Councilwoman DeGerolamo described the behavior of Council President Frank McVey, and we witnessed first hand Warren County Democratic Committee Vice Chair Theresa Bender Chapman being verbally attacked by him, we are confused as to how this man remains in his role as Council President. Is the political arena in Phillipsburg so morally bankrupt that they can no longer hold their own people accountable? One thing is certain, the old boys club is alive and well. And as the Republican Councilwoman observed based on her experience speaking with other women, this is not a partisan problem. It is an issue that is deeply rooted in a system of political oppression of women. A system that treats women as lesser humans not worthy of or capable of serving in leadership roles or making decisions on their own. As the adage goes, if nothing changes, nothing changes.

Councilwoman DeGerolamo and Theresa Bender Chapman are owed an apology by the Council President McVey. And after he apologizes, he should vacate his role as Council President. He is not fit to serve if he cannot serve in the company of women.”

Watch Danielle’s testimony:

Watch Theresa Bender Chapman being verbally attacked by Council President Frank
McVey: