In Washington, a high-ranking official in the Biden administration, Anthony Bernal, has been accused of engaging in behavior that spans over a decade, involving bullying and verbal sexual harassment towards colleagues, according to information obtained by The Post. Despite these allegations, Bernal, who holds a significant position as the First Lady Jill Biden’s chief aide, is reportedly shielded due to his close relationship with her, often referred to as her “work husband.”
Sources reveal that Bernal has made inappropriate comments regarding the physical attributes of colleagues, including speculations about their genitalia, linking it to the size of their thumbs. These comments were not isolated to his current role but date back to his time during President Biden’s campaign and his vice presidency under President Obama.
One individual described Bernal’s actions as a means to assert dominance and create discomfort among colleagues, labeling it as a classic case of sexual harassment. Another shared experiences of Bernal’s frequent inappropriate speculations about the sexual orientation and personal lives of colleagues, contributing to an uncomfortable work environment.
Despite previous reports highlighting Bernal’s abrasive behavior, new allegations of sexual harassment have emerged, painting a troubling picture of his conduct within the White House and Democratic politics. Critics argue that his continued presence in the administration contradicts President Biden’s commitment to maintaining a respectful and dignified workplace, raising questions about the administration’s stance on bullying and harassment.
The White House, through Chief of Staff Jeff Zients, and Bernal himself have denied these allegations, asserting confidence in Bernal’s character and dedication to public service. However, experts in workplace sexual harassment, like Professor Emerita Louise Fitzgerald, affirm that the described behavior constitutes sexual harassment, emphasizing the power dynamics at play.
The situation has sparked a broader discussion on the treatment of staff within the Biden administration, with some former employees expressing disillusionment with the leadership’s tolerance of such behavior. This controversy underscores the challenges in addressing workplace harassment at the highest levels of government and the importance of holding individuals accountable, regardless of their status or connections.