Washington, D.C.—President Trump held a press briefing this evening during which questions focused on the allegations of sexual assault against Brett Kavanaugh. During the briefing, Trump called the allegations “false” and a “big, fat con.” People For the American Way Executive Vice President Marge Baker issued the following statement in response:

“The president has no basis for dismissing the allegations against Brett Kavanaugh because he refuses to have the FBI investigate them. Trump pointedly ignored direct challenges from reporters about the common gap between a sexual assault and the survivor reporting it. He also seemed confused as to whether Deborah Ramirez would be testifying–she’s not. He also repeatedly cut off female reporters. If the president cannot be bothered to even pay attention to the process, if he cannot be bothered to learn about the impact sexual assault has on women, if he cannot even respect the women in the briefing room, there’s no way we can have confidence in his stewardship of this appointment process. This nomination should be withdrawn.”