Schuylkill County party leaders and state lawmakers called Friday for Schuylkill County Commissioner George Halcovage Jr. to resign after a lawsuit was filed alleging sexual harassment.

In a letter Friday, county elected leaders Howard Merrick, chairman of the Schuylkill County Republican Committee, Vice Chairman Robert Bylone, and Assistant Chairman Mary Labert, Larry Padora and Ben Wiessner and secretary Carolyn Bonkoski say the time has come.

“The Republican Party cherishes the highest standards of workplace equality and professionalism. Such behavior allegedly committed by Commissioner George Halcovage is inappropriate and cannot be tolerated. Commissioner Halcovage is entitled to due process, however, a dark cloud hovers over our courthouse and all the hardworking, honorable men and women serving the citizens of Schuylkill County. The undersigned elected leaders of the Schuylkill County Republican Party stand as one with our elected row officers to insist that Commissioner Halcovage resign. The severity of the allegations and intensity of the federal lawsuit precludes Commissioner Halcovage from effectively executing his duties to the citizens of Schuylkill County,” the letter says.

Merrick said he would email the letter to Halcovage on Friday.

State Reps. Jerry Knowles, Tim Twardzik and Joe Kerwin, representing Schuylkill County, also sent a letter to Halcovage on Friday, urging him to resign.

“Given the admissions you have already made, the reported findings from the Attorney General’s investigation, and the serious allegations made against you, we believe it is in the best interests of all involved - including you, your family, and the people of Schuylkill County - that you resign from office immediately. We urge you to focus your efforts on these allegations and caring for your family, without the continued distraction and spectacle of holding office in county government.”

On Thursday, all six female Republican row officers demanded Halcovage resign, citing the allegations against him as detailed in a 75-page federal lawsuit filed in the Middle District of Pennsylvania by four female county employees. The women said they have “no confidence” in his ability to effectively lead the county.

Hugh Reiley, chairperson of the Schuylkill County Democratic Committee, said Friday that he welcomes the support of the Republican County officeholders in demanding Halcovage resign “because of the harm that has occurred to the county’s reputation and respect within the commonwealth.”

He encouraged “all of the other Schuylkill County Republican commonwealth and federal officeholders, as well as the members of the Schuylkill County Republican Committee to stop overlooking the harm being caused to our community by Mr. Halcovage and join in with those of us that want to end the disgrace.”

He said the committee condemns all sexual harassment and assault, and supports all victims.

“Also, any allegations should be investigated immediately,” Reiley said.

Halcovage has denied the sexual harassment allegations.