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More legislators calling for MSU leadership change over Nassar scanda

Flickr User Bike Ann Arbor
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https://flic.kr/p/k7rXGD
Michigan State President Lou Anna Simon

Republican and Democratic leaders in the state Legislature are all calling for the removal of Michigan State University President Lou Anna Simon.

Lawmakers say they’ve lost confidence in her leadership because of the handling of the Larry Nassar scandal.

Support for Simon in the Legislature collapsed as, Nassar, the former MSU sports doctor faces sentencing for abusing athletes. For many hours this week in open court, women directed emotional statements to the man who abused them as children, and toward MSU officials who they say ignored the problem.

State Senator Margaret O’Brien says it’s time for a change of leadership at MSU.

“I think it shows that this is a bigger problem than anyone thought, and it’s time for a leadership change at MSU. I think -- My patience is gone.”

“It feels as though Michigan State is hiding behind a veil of secrecy, more worried about financial liability than correcting its policies or a culture – 14 people got reports of people being sexually assaulted, and didn’t do anything.”

“I resisted calling for her resignation until now because she’s been a strong leader for Michigan State, and I thought she would be a great leader to be able to walk us through this, but it’s at the point where lawsuits are more important than lives.”

The Senate’s Republican and Democratic leaders, the legislators who represent MSU’s hometown of East Lansing and the student newspaper also called for Simon to resign Thursday.

Simon sent a letter last week to legislators asking for patience while the legal process plays out.