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Local Officials And Candidates Call On Boone County GOP To Condemn Sexist Post

For Immediate Release
October 15, 2015

Contact: Caleb Cavarretta, 314-807-2484, ccavarretta@missouridems.org

COLUMBIA, Mo. — Rep. Stephen Webber and candidates Susan McClintic and Martha Stevens released the following joint statement regarding an inappropriate tweet by Frederick Berry, President of the Columbia Pachyderm Club:

Principled leadership means doing what is right, even if it means criticizing one’s own political party. President Frederick Berry of the Columbia Pachyderm club, a well-regarded organization among Missouri conservatives, posted an inappropriate photo and comment on social media of college women, noting their “Very Nice Butts.”

While President Berry refuses to apologize for his troubling remarks, local Republican leaders should not remain silent — they should instead call on him to resign.

Rep. Basye and Rep. Rowden in particular have a responsibility to condemn President Berry’s comments. Rep. Basye served as President of the Columbia Pachyderm club immediately prior to Berry, helping to build the reputation of the organization among conservatives. The Columbia Pachyderm club meetings are crucial events for Republican candidates, hosting the likes of Congresswoman Vicky Hartzler, Lieutenant Governor candidate Bev Randles and other prominent conservatives.

Additionally, when Mr. Berry ran for office as a Republican, Rep. Rowden attended a fundraiser in support of Berry’s campaign.

“Speaking out against an insensitive and demeaning comment should not be difficult for Rep. Bayse, Rowden, and other Republicans,” said Susan McClintic. “They have a responsibility to women and mid-Missourians to stand up for basic decency instead of their party and political ambitions.”

This degrading post reflects the atmosphere of Jefferson City, which has received consistent national attention for the mistreatment of young women. In order to change this environment, we need officials to step up and create a non-threatening place for all Missourians.

We hope that Republican leaders will do what is right and ask Mr. Berry to resign.