Embattled Nebraska State Senator Dan McKeon of Amherst tearfully resigned his District 41 seat on the floor of the legislature Tuesday morning as fellow lawmakers were prepared to take up a resolution to expel him.
“With deep prayer and careful discernment, I’ve come to the decision that I am resigning my position at this time,” McKeon said. The resignation follows allegations that he inappropriately touched a female staffer and told a sexually oriented joke at a post-session party last year.
“My words and actions were careless, regardless of intent,” McKeon said. “I accept my responsibility for the impact of my words and actions. I regret the circumstances that have led to this process and moment.”
McKeon says his resignation is something he doesn’t take lightly. “I do so with appreciation of this body, the profound gratitude for of the people of Nebraska, whom I’ve been honored to serve.” The Nebraska Legislature’s Executive Board unanimously voted on Monday to advance a resolution seeking to expel McKeon.
If 33 lawmakers had voted to remove McKeon, he would have been the first state lawmaker in history to be expelled. Gov. Pillen will appoint a successor to serve District 41 for the rest of the year.