However, the congressman admitted that some of his staffers felt “uncomfortable” when he discussed the issues of fertility and surrogacy. He also acknowledged that he became insensitive with the way he discusses surrogacy with them.
According to him, “I have recently learned that the Ethics Committee is reviewing an inquiry regarding my discussion of surrogacy with two previous female subordinates, making each feel uncomfortable. I deeply regret that my discussion of this option and process in the workplace caused distress.”
In addition, Rep Franks noted that there a “collective focus on a very important problem of justice and sexual impropriety.” He said, “It is so important that we get this right for everyone, especially for victims.”
Furthermore, Rep Franks is convinced that he would not be able to complete a fair House ethics investigation amid the current cultural and media climate. He does want to put himself, his family, staff, and colleagues in the panel through “hyperbolized public excoriation.”
