Gov. Scott pick resigns after misconduct allegation from Benacquisto

Author: Associated Press
Published: Updated:
Rep. Ritch Workman, R-Melbourne, left, and Rep. Douglas Vaughn “Doug” Broxson, R-Midway, debate on the House floor March 22, 2013. (House photo by Mark Foley)

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP) A high-level appointee by Florida Gov. Rick Scott is resigning from his post after being accused of sexual misconduct by a Republican state senator.

Senator Benacquisto
Sen. Lizbeth Benacquisto (Photo via Florida Senate)

Ritch Workman told Scott’s office on Monday he was resigning from the Public Service Commission. Workman resigned moments after Sen. Lizbeth Benacquisto, R-Fort Myers, publicly said that Workman touched her inappropriately and made inappropriate comments in 2016.

Workman, a former state legislator, had been picked by Scott for the PSC in September. He was due to start his job in January.

“The Governor has consistently said that any misconduct cannot be tolerated,” governor’s office spokeswoman Lauren Schenone wrote in an emailed statement. “He supports his decision to resign.”

Workman’s position was subject to Senate confirmation. Senate President Joe Negron said as a result of the allegations against Workman that he would not be confirmed.

Benacquisto had a meeting with Scott back in early November. Scott’s office would not comment on what was discussed during the meeting.

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