Newly Appointed Dem Lawmaker Hodge Resigns Amid Sex Scandal

Arizona State Representative Jevin Hodge (D-8) resigned earlier this week after allegations of sexual misconduct resurfaced. According to a story in the Arizona Republic, Hodge allegedly violated George Washington University’s conduct policy in 2015 after a fellow student filed a complaint for unwanted sexual advances. Hodge has denied any wrongdoing, alleging that the encounter was consensual and that he immediately walked away after the student declined to proceed.

Hodge’s unexpected resignation less than two months after his appointment exposes concerns over the vetting process. As the Arizona Globe reported in an article dated February 15, 2024, the responsibility of appointing replacements for House representatives falls to the County Board of Supervisors, in this case, of Maricopa County. State law mandates that the Board select someone from the same political party as the elected seat holder.

Hodge, who made an unsuccessful bid for David Schweikert’s congressional seat, is the fourth Democrat to exit Arizona’s Republican-led legislature this year, the second for this specific seat, and the eighth since the 2022 election.

Immediately after the report emerged, Rep. Hodge posted an apology for the incident on Twitter/X.

He wrote, “When I was a 21-year-old college student, I had a consensual romantic encounter with another student. We both had consumed alcohol and we remained clothed the entire time. I knew then as I know now that consent is non-negotiable, so when she made it clear she was not interested in continuing, we stopped. She called a taxi, and I walked her out. Months later, I learned that she accused me of sexual misconduct. I take responsibility for all my actions and have used this experience to grow as an adult, but I must be clear: I unequivocally deny the allegations made against me. In 2016, I requested that the police fully investigate these claims so the truth could come out. My request was denied by the University. I believe in taking responsibility for my actions. During the University hearing on this matter, I could see that I caused her emotional pain. I am sincerely sorry for the distress that I caused her. My focus now is doing my job representing the people of LD8 in Tempe, Phoenix and South Scottsdale, and West Mesa.”

My statement on the Arizona Republic article out today: pic.twitter.com/OIRoFZO4JE

— Representative Jevin D. Hodge (@JevinHodge) March 18, 2024

On Tuesday, March 19, 2024, Hodge unexpectedly resigned, posting again on Twitter/X.

He stated, “Today and every day, I take responsibility for my actions. I apologize now, again, to those that may have been caused pain by my actions. As a leader, I must demand more of myself. Public service means knowing when to lead – and it also means knowing when to step aside. As I said yesterday, I unequivocally deny the allegations made against me. However, now is not my time to lead. As a non-profit President, as a community leader, and as a member of the Arizona House of Representatives, I have always put in the work on behalf of Arizona’s families to move our state forward. That work will not change – it will only have a different home.”

My statement on my resignation from the Arizona House: pic.twitter.com/ZVIcUuZTU7

— Representative Jevin D. Hodge (@JevinHodge) March 19, 2024

State law mandates that the County Board nominate three qualified candidates for the position within five days of the vacancy when the legislature is in session (21 days when not in session). Because of Hodge’s abrupt exit, it’s unclear who the Board may consider for the seat.