Congressman Carson statement on sexual assault and harassment in the CIA

"As Ranking Member of the House Intelligence Committee's CIA Subcommittee, I was proud to author several provisions in the Intelligence Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2024 addressing sexual assault and harassment policies in the CIA. As our country's first line of defense, the CIA must function efficiently and effectively. Like any federal agency, the CIA has a responsibility to prevent sexual harassment and assault and to hold perpetrators accountable. According to this report, the CIA failed on both counts.

"Sexual harassment and assault are unfortunately prevalent in the intelligence community as well as in workplaces across the country. To address this serious issue, we must look at every level of the reporting and disciplinary processes. In my leadership capacity on the CIA Subcommittee, I've heard from survivors who described a confusing process for reporting sexual assault in the CIA and who felt reluctant to come forward without the promise of anonymity. My provisions in the Intelligence Authorization Act directly address those concerns, requiring the development of policies that protect employees' confidentiality. However, one of the best ways we can encourage survivors to come forward is by setting a clear example: those who have been proven to perpetrate sexual harassment and assault will be held accountable.

"I'm encouraged by the CIA's willingness to participate in this report and lead a new era and culture in the agency where survivors are empowered to come forward without fearing repercussions. We have a long way to go, but I will continue this important work with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle."