Ryan Lizza Out for "Improper Sexual Conduct"

Ryan Lizza is a political reporter for the New Yorker, whose visibility and platform afforded him outsized influence over how the 2016 election was perceived by the electorate.

The New Yorker has severed ties with Ryan Lizza in response to behavior the magazine believes to be “improper sexual conduct." Full statement: pic.twitter.com/a1PAb5Vkao

— Michael Calderone (@mlcalderone) December 11, 2017

In case you aren't able to read the embedded screencap, the full statement reads: "The New Yorker recently learned that Ryan Lizza engaged in what we believe was improper sexual conduct. We have reviewed the matter and, as a result, have severed ties with Lizza. Due to a request for privacy, we are not commenting further."

CNN, where Lizza is regularly featured as a commentator, quickly cut ties with Lizza, too — at least while they investigate.

Lizza himself issued a statement reading in its entirety: "I am dismayed that The New Yorker has decided to characterize a respectful relationship with a woman I dated as somehow inappropriate. The New Yorker was unable to cite any company policy that was violated. I am sorry to my friends, workplace colleagues, and loved ones for any embarassment this episode may cause. I love The New Yorker, my home for the last decade, and I have the highest regard for the people who work there. But this decision, which was made hastily and without a full investigation of the relevant facts, was a terrible mistake."

So, I'll just point out that the New Yorker's statement did not disclose any details that would have allowed potential identification of the person to whom Lizza had demonstrated "improper sexual conduct," but Lizza immediately identified her as someone he dated, thus exposing her — to some degree, and at minimum to their circle — without her consent.

It's hard not to read that as at attempt at intimidation to silence her.

That is fucked-up, abuser behavior.