Riebe's Resignation Stance: Utah Senator Defies Caucus After Discrimination Probe

State Sen. Kathleen Riebe has formally rejected a demand from her caucus to step down, stating clearly, "I am not resigning." The Democratic senator from Cottonwood Heights holds her position despite a recent investigation that alleged patterns of workplace discrimination and harassment.

The conflict intensified on Tuesday when the Senate Minority Caucus announced Riebe's removal from the group. Caucus leaders released a statement describing the investigation's findings without sharing the full report. They identified a pattern of conduct likely motivated by race, national origin, or ethnicity. Leaders also cited statements regarding employment decisions that involved individuals based on sexual orientation or other protected characteristics.

Riebe responded via email to FOX 13 News, noting that she had not been given access to the final investigation report before the caucus made its decision. She disputed the specific characterizations of her conduct that had been relayed to her. The senator said she would not discuss confidential personnel matters or speculate on the contents of a document she has not yet reviewed.

Riebe emphasized that voters have elected her to public office four times. She stated she has important work ahead for her constituents and requested a copy of the report from caucus leaders. Leaders did not contact her for a response prior to announcing her removal from the caucus.

In her email, Riebe referenced the election results from the previous evening, which saw her party secure major victories across Utah. She wrote that voters sent a loud message expecting elected officials to focus on getting work done. Riebe said she will continue that work and remain focused on accomplishing goals with her colleagues.