Kentucky State Representative Daniel Grossberg has been permanently banned from a Louisville strip club following allegations of inappropriate behavior toward dancers. These allegations include touching one dancer during a performance and offering another dancer $5,000 for sexual favors. Grossberg, a Democrat from Louisville, has denied all accusations of misconduct.
Governor Andy Beshear, along with other key Democrats such as Lt. Gov. Jacqueline Coleman, has called for Grossberg to resign immediately while investigations into his conduct are ongoing. During a press conference, Beshear stated, “You cannot be a state representative and engage in this type of conduct.” Coleman expressed similar views, emphasizing that “Women and girls in Kentucky deserve better, and so do Rep. Grossberg’s constituents.”
Allison Wiseman, president of the Kentucky Young Democrats, identified herself as one of Grossberg’s alleged victims, referring to herself as “Woman C” from a prior report. Wiseman shared her uncomfortable experiences and urged Grossberg to resign. She expressed on social media, “These feelings of mine will never go away.” Wiseman highlighted her commitment to her role in the Kentucky Democratic Party and the importance of supporting fellow victims.
The allegations against Grossberg coincide with an ethics investigation initiated by the Kentucky Legislative Ethics Commission. On September 10, the commission voted unanimously to pursue the investigation. In reaction to the accusations, House Democratic leadership has temporarily removed Grossberg from his committee assignments.
Through his attorney, Anna Whites, Grossberg has maintained his innocence, calling the allegations “outlandish” and denying any solicitation of prostitution. “I have never solicited prostitution from anyone, nor have I referenced my office to gain advantage,” he stated, asserting he has no plans to resign and intends to continue serving his constituents.
Despite his resistance to stepping down, pressure from the Democratic Party is escalating. U.S. Rep. Morgan McGarvey publicly urged Grossberg to resign, stressing that “sexual assault, harassment, and abuses of power cannot be tolerated.” Furthermore, the Kentucky House Democratic Caucus released an official statement recommending that he vacate his position in light of strong support for the victims.
Other state leaders, including Kentucky Democratic Chair Colmon Elridge and state Sen. Cassie Chambers Armstrong, have echoed calls for Grossberg’s resignation, declaring his continued presence in office as indefensible.
The investigation into Grossberg is ongoing, and the results of the ethics probe remain to be seen. Nonetheless, the demand for his resignation from numerous Democratic voices continues to grow.