Gay former staffer sues GOP Texas congressman over ‘hostile work environment’

Author: Ryan Adamczeski

A former congressional staffer has filed a lawsuit against Texas Republican U.S. Rep. Troy Nehls, claiming he was forced to quit his position due to a “hostile work environment.”

Nehls also made “hostile” comments about LGBTQ+ people, according to the lawsuit, including saying “we do not support these people” after he saw an employee watching the reality show Queer Eye. Chadwell said that Nehls asked other employees about his sexuality and began to “ostracize” him after he learned he is gay, going so far as to completely ignore his work messages.

Chadwell claimed that he was denied a promotion because of his sexuality, despite being the “most qualified” for the position. Instead, he was made to train the new hire who received the position, a heterosexual man, who quickly took over Chadwell’s duties. Schroeder later allegedly told Chadwell that he had “no future or growth potential” with Nehls’s office, as their “lifestyles” did not align.

Chadwell said that he initially requested a transfer to the congressman’s office in Richmond, Texas, in May 2021 to escape the bigoted comments and that he ended up resigning in October 2023 after “threats and extreme pressure.”

“Mr. Chadwell was deeply offended and disturbed that, up until his last day in the Office, the Office continued to isolate, ostracize and harass him because of his sexual orientation,” the lawsuit states.

Original Article on The Advocate
Author: Ryan Adamczeski