Florida State Representative Fabián Basabe has been found liable for sexually harassing two male staffers and is facing calls for his resignation. A court ordered Basabe to pay a total of $450,000 in damages to his former legislative assistant and intern. Nikki Fried, chair of the Florida Democratic Party, criticized the Republican leadership for allegedly attempting to cover up Basabe's actions and called for his immediate resignation.
The lawsuit, filed in July 2023, included allegations that Basabe slapped an aide and made inappropriate comments. A Florida House Human Resources Department investigation confirmed inappropriate touching but deemed some claims inconclusive. Basabe, who represented himself in court, expressed regret over that decision, stating he underestimated the complexities of civil litigation. Despite previously campaigning as a moderate Republican supporting LGBTQ+ rights, he has faced criticism for his votes on related legislation. Basabe is seeking reelection this fall.