Several current and former White House officials have defended Anthony Bernal, an assistant to the president and senior adviser to the first lady who has been accused of sexual harassment.
The allegations against Bernal stemmed from a New York Post report last week that cited nearly a dozen anonymous former and current colleagues. Nearly a week later, Fox News reported that several current and former White House officials are defending Bernal’s character.
The alleged harassment detailed in the report from the New York Post claims Bernal would make “inappropriate remarks,” including speculation about people’s sex lives and the size of people’s genitalia. The report also claimed Bernal is “untouchable” because of his relationship with first lady Jill Biden.
The report cites various statements, most of which are from anonymous people, including a current official who denied ever hearing comments like the ones Bernal is accused of making.
“Anthony is one of the most generous, conscientious, brilliant people working at the White House,” a White House official said. “In the 20 years I’ve known him, I’ve never heard him make comments like the ones alleged — in fact, he’s always been quite intentional and purposeful in making sure colleagues at every level feel valued and appreciated.”
Ron Klain, former chief of staff to President Joe Biden, echoed the sentiments of several anonymous former colleagues of Bernal, saying he has “always” seen Bernal act with professionalism and compassion toward co-workers.
“I’ve worked with Anthony for almost 30 years — and I’ve always seen him act with the utmost professionalism and compassion toward his team,” Klain said.
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The Washington Examiner reached out to the White House for comment.
Early on in the Biden White House, a staffer had to resign over a verbal harassment allegation. In February 2021, TJ Ducklo, a White House communications staffer, resigned after he allegedly berated a female reporter about a relationship he had with another journalist. Ducklo was hired by Biden’s reelection campaign last year.
