Kansas Democratic Party director, investigated for toxic work environment, steps down
Ben Meers has stepped down as executive director of the Kansas Democratic Party nearly a year after the party completed an internal investigation into whether Meers had created a toxic workplace for staff.
The party announced Meers’ departure on Friday, roughly two weeks after he officially stepped down. Kansas Democratic Party chair Vicki Hiatt said Meers’ exit was voluntary and became official on Dec. 31 of last year.
Last year, the party investigated Meers for allegations he had fostered a toxic workplace environment at the party after receiving a complaint from three former employees.
Though the party told some complainants in emails that the investigation had corroborated at least some of their concerns, Meers retained control over day-to-day operations until he resigned. The emails and the investigation were first reported by The Star in May of last year.
Meers’ responsibilities included leading the Kansas Democratic Party’s operations through the midterm elections and Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly’s reelection bid.
Following the investigation, Hiatt told The Star the party had “implemented multiple policies, including communications improvements, and required mandatory management training to improve the organizational and workplace environment for all employees.”
In a statement, Friday she thanked Meers for his service since he joined the party in 2019.
“Under his leadership, the KDP has secured crucial wins for Kansas families at the ballot box. On behalf of the Party and the state of Kansas, we thank him,” Hiatt said.
Meers did not return a call seeking comment.
Katie Sullivan, one of the former employees who filed a complaint against Meers, said in a text message that his departure was necessary.
“I’m glad the Party is moving forward in a positive direction,” she said.
Edgar Pando, the current vice chair of the party, will serve as interim director of the party until a permanent replacement is hired.
This story was updated to correct a misspelling of Edgar Pando’s name.
This story was originally published January 13, 2023 at 1:47 PM.
