New Mexico Legislature seeks outside counsel

SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) — Leading New Mexico state legislators say they will consult with outside counsel regarding allegations of sexual harassment against a state lawmaker by a former lobbyist. In a statement Wednesday, House Speaker Brian Egolf and four female Democratic lawmakers described as deeply troubling the harassment allegations against Rep. Carl Trujillo of Santa Fe. Animal rights advocate and former political lobbyist Laura Bonar has accused Trujillo in an open letter of inappropriate sexual advances in 2013 and 2014 and urged him to resign. Trujillo is denouncing allegations against him as lies orchestrated by political opponents. Egolf says outside counsel will help determine how to proceed, with consideration for Bonar's wishes regarding a possible investigation. Bonar has not filed a harassment complaint with the Legislature or in court.