Mayor's 'MILF' Comment and Alleged Physical Contact Spark Legal Fallout in St. Paul

Allegations Surface in St. Paul Mayor's Office

St. Paul, Minnesota, is embroiled in controversy after a lawsuit filed by Police Chief David Gans alleges that Mayor Kaohly Her engaged in inappropriate behavior, including calling herself a 'MILF' and allegedly touching his thigh during a meeting. The suit, which was filed in state court, adds to the growing scrutiny of conduct within public office.

"I don't know what else I can say except that this is not how we treat people," said Gans in a statement to reporters following the filing.

The allegations stem from an incident at a city council meeting in early 2024, where Gans, who has served as St. Paul's police chief since 2019, claimed he was touched without consent and made to feel uncomfortable by the mayor. According to the lawsuit, Her described herself as a 'MILF' in a moment that Gans believes crossed professional boundaries.

A Controversial Self-Reference

The use of the term 'MILF,' which stands for 'Mom I'd Like to F*ck,' is generally considered inappropriate in formal or public settings. For Her, who is known for her progressive stance on issues like diversity and policing reform, such language could be seen as a sharp contrast to her otherwise measured public persona.

While the lawsuit has not yet gone to trial, it's already drawn significant attention from local media and the city's political landscape. Gans' legal team is seeking monetary damages, claiming emotional distress and workplace harassment. The suit also alleges retaliation, suggesting that Her may have taken adverse actions against Gans following his complaints.

City Response and Public Outcry

The city council has been quick to respond, with several members calling for a full investigation into the claims. Councilwoman Jennifer Shilling noted, 'This is not just about one incident—it's about the culture of leadership in our city.' Several local organizations have voiced their support for Gans, emphasizing the importance of holding public officials accountable.

Mayor Her has publicly denied all allegations, stating that she 'has always treated her colleagues with respect' and that the events described were misinterpreted. Her office issued a statement, saying, 'We will continue to fully cooperate with any investigation.' However, some council members have expressed concern over whether Her's leadership is appropriate given the claims.

Broader Implications

This case touches on more than just one city council meeting—it raises critical questions about how public officials are expected to behave and what recourse exists for those who feel mistreated in professional environments. In recent years, similar allegations have sparked national conversations about workplace dynamics and the use of derogatory language in political contexts.

Legal experts point out that this case could set a precedent for other cities dealing with similar situations involving public officials. 'It's a reminder that power doesn't shield one from accountability,' said Professor Sarah Martinez from the University of Minnesota Law School. 'We're seeing more and more cases where misconduct is being challenged in ways that weren't possible before.'

What's Next?

The case is currently under review, with a hearing scheduled for late spring. Both parties are expected to present their arguments, which could include testimony from witnesses, documents, and expert analysis on the nature of workplace harassment. Gans' legal team plans to highlight internal communications that may suggest a pattern of behavior, while Her's team will focus on her record of public service.

Meanwhile, St. Paul residents are left grappling with questions about trust in their city leadership. As the case unfolds, many hope it leads to more robust policies and better protection for those who work within the public sector—regardless of rank or title.