WASHINGTON — Ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Halely said all women who believe they’ve been victims of sexual harassment should be heard, including those who have accused President Trump.
“Any woman who has felt violated or felt mistreated in any way, they have every right to speak up,” Haley told CBS’s “Face the Nation.”
Asked whether Trump’s election means the allegations against him have been settled, Haley responded: “That’s for the people to decide. I know that he was elected. But, you know, women should always feel comfortable coming forward. And we should all be willing to listen to them.”
Trump was elected to the highest office despite a flurry of women accusing the New York billionaire of sexual misconduct and Trump himself boasting about grabbing women’s genitals on an “Access Hollywood” tape.
In recent months, however, there’s a stark cultural shift in Hollywood, the media and politics where women accusers are believed and powerful men are suffering consequences.
“I am incredibly proud of the women who have come forward. I’m proud of their strength. I’m proud of their courage,” Haley said.
Trump has denied all allegations of sexual misconduct and the White House position is that all his accusers are lying.
During a round of Sunday show appearances, Haley also batted down speculation that she will become Secretary of State, with Rex Tillerson believed to be on the way out.
“I am not interested in the Secretary of State position because I know I am valuable here at the United Nations,” Haley told “Fox News Sunday.” “I would not take it. I am perfectly happy in New York.”
And she said the “the full US Olympic team” will head to South Korea for the winter Olympics and the US will continue to ensure their safety, in response to indications from the administration last week that it might pull out of the Games over concerns for the security of Team USA members amid growing tensions with North Korea.