Victoria Petro, one of four individuals accusing congressional candidate Eva Lopez Chavez of unwanted advances, has publicly stated she acted independently and believes additional accusers may exist.

Allegations and Petro's Statement

Petro emphasized to KUTV that she consistently responds truthfully to media inquiries but did not proactively seek coverage of the allegations. She confirmed she did not collaborate with the other three accusers and suspects there are unreported instances of similar behavior involving Lopez Chavez.

Petro detailed her experience to The Salt Lake Tribune, alleging a physical assault including being grabbed by the throat, pushed against a wall, and subjected to a sexually suggestive comment. Two other women in Utah politics, along with a private citizen, have also come forward with similar allegations.

Lopez Chavez's Response

Eva Lopez Chavez, currently a Salt Lake City Council member, acknowledged the allegations and expressed willingness to cooperate with a fair and independent investigation. She unequivocally denied any wrongdoing and intends to defend herself legally.

Lopez Chavez stressed the importance of factual accuracy, due process, and accountability, expressing confidence that a thorough examination would reveal the truth. She also acknowledged the credibility of the accusers.

Political Implications and Other Utah News

Victoria Petro reinforced the independent nature of each account, highlighting a clear pattern of behavior. The allegations emerge as Lopez Chavez competes in a six-person race for Congress in Utah’s newly formed 1st District, a seat considered to lean Democratic.

The state Democratic convention this weekend is crucial, potentially leading to a primary election or ending her campaign. As of Friday evening, Lopez Chavez was slightly short of the signatures needed to automatically qualify for the primary ballot.

Her campaign emphasizes her historic election as the first Mexican American to the Salt Lake City Council and her affiliation with the LGBTQ+ and Mexican American communities.

Other News from Utah

  • Several Salt Lake City streets will temporarily close Saturday for the annual marathon.
  • Hatch, in Southern Utah, issued a boil water order after E. coli was found in the water supply.
  • A man has been charged with child torture, abuse, and kidnapping following concerns raised by Primary Children’s Hospital.
  • Alan Osmond passed away on Monday at age 76, with private funeral services planned.

    • The allegations against Lopez Chavez remain a dominant story, potentially reshaping the political landscape of Utah’s 1st Congressional District and prompting a broader conversation about accountability.