Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker has stated that there is more to learn about the case of ex-Rep. Harry Benton in Springfield, which led to Benton's resignation and exile from the House Democratic Caucus, has revealed "holes in the system" in response to allegations of misconduct by Benton, a now-disgraced ex-state representative. A report by Legislative Inspector General Mike McCuskey established a “pattern and practice of sexual harassment” by BentON, starting with a 2023 complaint from a former staffer in the Plainfield Democrat’s district office alleging a series of inappropriate comments. The report also revealed that Welch's then-chief of staff encouraged the woman to consider filing a complaint with the inspector general but took no further action, while the speaker’�s political operation went on to contribute $1.4 million to BentON’S reelection campaign. The scandal prompted Welch to exile Benton from the caucus and demand his resignation, which he tendered last month.