Florida GOP Lawmaker Ordered to Pay $450K for Sexually Harassing Male Staffers, but He Still Hasn’t Resigned

A Florida jury has ruled that state Representative Fabián Basabe, a Republican who has faced controversy as a former reality TV star, is liable for sexually harassing two male staff members. This decision follows a civil trial in which the jury awarded the former aides $450,000 in damages, after they alleged a series of incidents involving inappropriate behaviour, including one incident that reportedly occurred in a classroom filled with elementary school children.

Basabe, who is 48 and represents Miami, has been described as a “common sense family man.” However, the allegations against him paint a troubling picture. During the trial, the court heard claims from Nicolas Frevola and Jacob Cutbirth who described multiple instances of sexual harassment and battery. According to attorney Cindy Myers, one alleged incident involved Basabe slapping Frevola on the backside and whispering suggestive comments while they were present in a classroom setting.

The jury’s findings also supported claims that Basabe harassed Cutbirth in a variety of inappropriate ways, which included asking about the size of his genitals and making suggestive comments aimed at undermining Cutbirth’s engagement to his fiancée. Myers expressed incredulity at Basabe’s re-election, urging voters in his district to reconsider their support come the next election.

Despite the jury’s verdict, Basabe has not opted to resign from his position and has publicly asserted that he plans to remain in office. Initially, he represented himself during the trial, later admitting that this may have been a poor decision. In a video address to his constituents, he reiterated his innocence and expressed confidence in his character and integrity, vowing to resign if any allegations were proven true in the future.

Criticism has come from various quarters. Nikki Fried, the chair of the Florida Democratic Party, condemned Basabe’s actions as “disgusting” and accused Republican leadership in Florida’s House of Representatives of facilitating a cover-up to protect him from accountability. Fried called for immediate resignation, asserting that Basabe has lost his right to serve in public office.

In the wake of the civil case, ethics complaints lodged against Basabe by Frevola and Cutbirth were dismissed earlier this year by the Florida Commission on Ethics, although both men have expressed frustration at the decisions. An investigation conducted by an external firm, hired by the Republican-led Florida House, also purportedly found no evidence of wrongdoing. However, Myers contended that the jury’s decision reflected a clear judgement in favour of her clients’ credibility over Basabe’s defence.

The former representatives are also suing the Florida House itself, claiming that the institution has covered up Basabe’s misconduct, which they argue undermines the dignity of the legislative body and their prospects as public servants.

Basabe first entered the political arena in 2022 but previously gained notoriety as a cast member on the reality television series “Filthy Rich: Cattle Drive.” His public persona reflects a complicated narrative; he has been married since 2005 yet identifies as gay and has drawn criticism for his political stances, particularly regarding LGBTQ+ rights in Florida.

Adding to the intrigue, Basabe has connections in the entertainment industry, including a friendship with actor Cuba Gooding Jr., who was initially set to be a witness in the trial but ultimately did not testify. Gooding himself has faced numerous accusations of inappropriate behaviour in recent years.

As the political atmosphere in Florida evolves, the ramifications of this case may extend beyond Basabe’s personal career. With the upcoming election cycle on the horizon, the actions and decisions of voters in his district will likely play a significant role in determining Basabe’s political future amidst ongoing scrutiny over his conduct.