SAN DIEGO — Facing calls for his resignation after accusations of sexual harassment, San Diego Mayor Bob Filner apologized Thursday for his treatment of women and vowed to change his behavior, admitting “I need help.”
Filner, 70, indicated that he will not resign but said, “I have reached into my heart and soul and realize I must and will change my behavior.” He said he and his staff will take the sexual harassment training offered by the city.
On a DVD given to the media, Filner said, “As someone who has spent a lifetime fighting for equality for all people, I am embarrassed to admit that I have failed to fully respect the women who work for me and with me, and that at times I have intimidated them.”
Earlier, at a news conference, three longtime friends and supporters called on him to resign for what one called “truly reprehensible” behavior toward women.
Although no details were given about the alleged sexual harassment, former City Councilwoman Donna Frye and lawyers Marco Gonzalez and Cory Briggs said they will help the women should they decide to sue. Frye said the women “are too scared to speak.”
