Former Aide Sues Rep. Nehls’ Office for Discrimination
A former aide to Congressman Troy Nehls has filed a 12-page lawsuit against the lawmaker’s office, alleging a pattern of homophobic comments that led to discrimination based on his sexual orientation.
The lawsuit claims that Congressman Nehls and his chief of staff engaged in homophobic behavior, which eventually forced the aide, Alex Chadwell, to leave his job. Attorney Les Alderman, representing Chadwell, stated that such behavior in 2024 is unacceptable, and Chadwell is bravely standing up for himself and other victims of discrimination.
Alderman emphasized the emotional toll this discrimination took on Chadwell, stating, “He was forced out because he was gay, it’s traumatic for anyone.” The lawsuit, filed in the U.S. District Court for D.C., targets Congressman Nehls and his entire congressional office.
According to the lawsuit, Chadwell faced anti-gay comments from Nehls’ chief of staff, including remarks like ‘gays go to hell’ and ‘it’s Adam and Eve, not Adam and Steve’. When Chadwell requested a transfer to the district office in Richmond, Texas, the Congressman learned of his sexual orientation, leading to a deterioration in his work environment.
Hostility in the office escalated, with Chadwell recounting instances where the Congressman expressed disapproval of employees watching LGBTQ+ content. Chadwell also claims that Rep. Nehls cut ties with his family, further isolating him.
Alderman described the situation as more than workplace discrimination, likening it to a family member rejecting a loved one for coming out. The pressure became unbearable for Chadwell, leading to his resignation in October 2023.
In response to the lawsuit, a spokeswoman for Congressman Nehls, Emily Matthews, denied the allegations, stating, “There is no merit whatsoever to Mr. Chadwell’s claim, and the allegations of sexual orientation harassment are totally false.” The office plans to vigorously defend against the accusations.
Alderman anticipates a lengthy legal process, estimating it could take up to two years for the case to go to trial. Despite the challenges ahead, Chadwell remains determined to seek justice and hold accountable those responsible for the discrimination he faced.