Katie Hill’s Downfall Is Revenge Porn Experts’ Fears Come to Life

SYNOPSIS

This Vice article by Brendan O’Connor goes into a few of the implications of rep Katie Hill’s resignation. The resignation came after an investigation allegedly concluding that Hill had inappropriate relations with a subordinate, came to light. Though Hill denies the allegations, she admitted to having a relationship with a campaign staff member prior to her time in office.

Overall, the media frenzy and probing coverage has brought to light a pretty major double standard in the way political affairs are covered. Furthermore, experts are saying the use of personal photos in the coverage could set a new and scary precedent in the field.

TAKEAWAYS

Invasion of Privacy-"Non consensually publishing another person’s intimate images is just one of many tactics available to domestic abusers," said Carrie Goldberg, an attorney whose firm specializes in defending victims of revenge porn.

Double Standard-In-office affairs are nothing new to politics, but the way Hill’s was handled points to a gendered issue.

A Community Issue-Defenders of Hill also believe her sexuality was a driving factor in the way the investigation was handled and reported on.

Find the full article here