Looking The Other Way Pt 2: On tape and under oath
Digest
This podcast delves into the allegations of sexual harassment against Rick Jacobs, a former top advisor to Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti. It explores how Garcetti, a rising star in the Democratic Party, responded to these allegations and whether he was truthful about what he knew and when. The episode examines the context of Garcetti's political ambition and the MeToo movement, highlighting the tension between his desire to serve and his alleged knowledge of Jacobs' behavior. It also explores the broader implications of how Democratic leaders have handled accusations of sexual misconduct within their own ranks. The episode delves into the culture at City Hall under Garcetti's leadership, revealing that allegations of inappropriate behavior by Jacobs were an open secret among staff. Many expressed concern about his behavior but felt powerless to speak out. The episode focuses on the testimony of various individuals involved in the case, including former Garcetti staff members, Jacobs himself, and Garcetti. It examines the evidence presented, including text messages, emails, and a photograph that allegedly depicts Jacobs engaging in inappropriate behavior. The episode discusses the Senate confirmation process for Garcetti's ambassadorship to India, which was delayed due to the allegations against Jacobs. It explores the political pressure surrounding the confirmation and the consequences for those who spoke out against Jacobs. The episode examines the broader implications of the case for the MeToo movement and Democratic politics, highlighting the tension between Democratic leaders' rhetoric of supporting victims and their actions in protecting accused individuals. The episode concludes with the settlement of the lawsuit against the city of Los Angeles and the current status of Garcetti and Jacobs. It reflects on the lasting impact of the case and the challenges of holding powerful individuals accountable for their actions.
Outlines
Garcetti, Jacobs, and the Allegations
This episode examines allegations of sexual harassment against Rick Jacobs, a former top advisor to Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti, exploring the political context, the culture at City Hall, and the consequences for those who spoke out.
Political Ambition and the MeToo Movement
The episode examines the context of Garcetti's political ambition and the MeToo movement, highlighting the tension between his desire to serve and his alleged knowledge of Jacobs' behavior. It also explores the broader implications of how Democratic leaders have handled accusations of sexual misconduct within their own ranks.
The Culture at City Hall
The episode delves into the culture at City Hall under Garcetti's leadership, revealing that allegations of inappropriate behavior by Jacobs were an open secret among staff. Many expressed concern about his behavior but felt powerless to speak out.
Testimony and Evidence
The episode focuses on the testimony of various individuals involved in the case, including former Garcetti staff members, Jacobs himself, and Garcetti. It examines the evidence presented, including text messages, emails, and a photograph that allegedly depicts Jacobs engaging in inappropriate behavior.
Confirmation, Aftermath, and the MeToo Movement
The episode discusses the Senate confirmation process for Garcetti's ambassadorship to India, which was delayed due to the allegations against Jacobs. It explores the political pressure surrounding the confirmation and the consequences for those who spoke out against Jacobs. The episode examines the broader implications of the case for the MeToo movement and Democratic politics, highlighting the tension between Democratic leaders' rhetoric of supporting victims and their actions in protecting accused individuals.
Settlement and the Future
The episode concludes with the settlement of the lawsuit against the city of Los Angeles and the current status of Garcetti and Jacobs. It reflects on the lasting impact of the case and the challenges of holding powerful individuals accountable for their actions.
Keywords
Open Secret
A piece of information that is widely known but not officially acknowledged or discussed. It often refers to a situation where everyone knows about something but pretends not to, due to fear, social pressure, or other reasons.
Political Ambition
The strong desire to achieve political power or influence. It often involves seeking elected office, gaining leadership positions, or shaping public policy.
MeToo Movement
A social movement that encourages victims of sexual harassment and assault to speak out against their abusers. It aims to raise awareness of these issues, challenge societal norms that enable abuse, and hold perpetrators accountable.
Toxic Workplace Culture
A work environment characterized by negative behaviors, such as harassment, bullying, discrimination, and lack of respect. It can have a detrimental impact on employee morale, productivity, and well-being.
Gaslighting
A form of psychological manipulation in which a person seeks to sow seeds of doubt in a victim's mind, making them question their own sanity or perception of reality. It is often used to control or exploit the victim.
Retaliation
An act of revenge or punishment taken against someone for speaking out or taking action against wrongdoing. It can involve threats, intimidation, job loss, or other forms of harm.
Political Cocoon
A protective environment where politicians are surrounded by supporters and advisors who reinforce their beliefs and decisions. It can lead to a lack of critical feedback and a distorted view of reality.
Narcissism
A personality disorder characterized by an inflated sense of self-importance, a need for admiration, and a lack of empathy. Narcissists often have a grandiose view of themselves and their abilities, and they may exploit others to achieve their goals.
Accountability
The state of being responsible for one's actions and their consequences. It involves taking ownership of mistakes, making amends, and learning from experiences.
Q&A
How did Eric Garcetti respond to the allegations of sexual harassment against Rick Jacobs?
Garcetti initially denied any knowledge of Jacobs' behavior, but later admitted to witnessing some of his inappropriate actions. He claimed that he always believed these actions were consensual and that he would have taken action if he had known otherwise.
What evidence was presented in the case against Rick Jacobs?
The evidence included text messages, emails, and a photograph that allegedly depicted Jacobs engaging in inappropriate behavior. Several former Garcetti staff members testified about Jacobs' behavior, and Jacobs himself denied the allegations.
What were the consequences for those who spoke out against Rick Jacobs?
Some individuals who spoke out against Jacobs faced backlash, including threats, intimidation, and damage to their reputations. They also expressed concerns about the impact on their careers and future job prospects.
What does this case reveal about the MeToo movement and Democratic politics?
The case highlights the tension between Democratic leaders' rhetoric of supporting victims and their actions in protecting accused individuals. It raises questions about the effectiveness of the MeToo movement in holding powerful individuals accountable for their actions.
What is the current status of Eric Garcetti and Rick Jacobs?
Garcetti was confirmed as ambassador to India, despite the allegations against Jacobs. Jacobs has continued to work as a political consultant and lobbyist. The case has had a lasting impact on both individuals and the political landscape.
Show Notes
Episode 2 of our two-part investigation.
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