“After years of inappropriate conduct toward female employees and belittling individuals based on physical characteristics, Mr. Kiyonaga’s termination is a step in the right direction, but it’s certainly not the end of this disturbing saga. I’m stunned that not only was one of the Governor’s senior employees allowed to remain on staff, but he was repeatedly promoted. And there is a sad irony here that Mr. Kiyonaga was promoted within and to agencies whose sole mission is to help and protect our most vulnerable citizens. It doesn’t inspire confidence in state government when an agency specifically charged with responding to claims of abuse (Justice Center) so blatantly overlooks allegations within its office. And an agency that cares for individuals with disabilities (OPWDD) should never have a leader who openly mocks subordinates for physical ailments.”

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