Breese-Iverson critical of investigator’s findings regarding fellow lawmaker’s texts

(Update: Breese-Iverson issues critical statement on investigator's findings)

SALEM, Ore. (AP) — An investigator hired by the Oregon Legislature has concluded that Democrat Rep. Brad Witt, of Clatskanie, did not intend to tell a colleague, Republican Rep. Vikki Breese-Iverson of Prineville, that he would vote for her bill in exchange for sexual favors.

The Oregonian/OregonLive reports, however, the investigator did find that Breese-Iverson “was not unreasonable” to interpret Witt’s text message as sexual harassment.

According to screenshots of messages, the exchange happened after Breese-Iverson asked Witt to back her bill easing red tape for reservoir owners in her district.

Witt says he's gratified that the probe dealt with the facts and looks forward to a final resolution.

Breese-Iverson released a statement in response to the report's findings on Thursday:

“The report appears to justify Rep. Witt’s inappropriate actions with excuses.  It takes real leadership to stand up and say that this is wrong.  Women deserve to be treated fairly and equally.  We should not be subjected to unwanted, suggestive text messages.  Rep. Witt knows what he did. I believe the text messages that were included as evidence speak for themselves. And it is not the first time.  Others are too afraid to come forward because they know that legislative leadership will just sweep these complaints under the rug.   This abuse of power must have appropriate consequences if we can actually expect a safe working environment in the capitol.”

Breese-Iverson told NewsChannel 21 in a video interview she's upset about the findings and that changes need to be made in the process, which she called "very flawed."

To read the investigator's report: