In a bizarre and troubling incident at the Vermont Statehouse, Republican Representative Mary Morrissey has been caught on video pouring water into the bag of Democratic Representative Jim Carroll. This act, which occurred multiple times over several months, has sparked a significant ethics investigation and widespread condemnation from both sides of the political aisle.
The controversy came to light when Rep. Carroll noticed his bag was frequently soaked and suspected foul play. To catch the culprit, Carroll set up a spy camera, which eventually captured Morrissey in the act. The videos, released to the media, show Morrissey approaching Carroll's bag, which was hung outside his committee room, and deliberately pouring water into it.
GOP lawmaker secretly pours water into rival's bag for FIVE MONTHS https://t.co/OJn42NAbMf via @MailOnline
— Sister of Greg Gunn (@SistrofGregGunn) June 20, 2024
In one video dated March 23, Morrissey can be seen wearing a gray suit jacket as she nonchalantly pours water into Carroll's bag.
A second video from March 26 shows her repeating the act, this time dressed in a rose-colored jacket and scarf. The videos, although not showing her face, clearly identify Morrissey by her distinctive long gray hair.
if you cant trust Rep. Mary Ann Morrissey in a coat closet how can you trust her to represent you? Please call for her resignation https://t.co/JpvafwsDOY
— Sophia Fox (@pcolagatorgirl) June 20, 2024
This behavior has left many lawmakers in shock. "To have another member actually do something like that, it’s hard to fathom," said Republican Rep. Mike Marcotte. The incident has led to a confidential ethics probe by the House Ethics Panel to determine whether Morrissey's actions constitute harassment.
Rep. Morrissey, who has faced disciplinary actions such as being removed from a key committee, issued an apology but did not provide an explanation for her actions. "I deeply regret my actions and any distress they caused Representative Carroll," Morrissey said in a brief statement. However, the apology has done little to quell the outrage and confusion over her motive.
The incident has drawn sharp criticism from various quarters, with many questioning the appropriateness of such conduct within the legislative environment. "It’s just unbelievable that a lawmaker would stoop to such behavior," remarked Rep. Angela Arsenault, a Democrat who has viewed the footage. The ethics investigation will determine if further disciplinary measures are warranted against Morrissey.
The scandal underscores a troubling lapse in decorum and professionalism within the Vermont Statehouse, highlighting the need for robust ethical standards and accountability for public officials. As the investigation continues, many are calling for a thorough review to ensure such incidents do not recur in the future.
