Key Takeaways

• Glenn Hamer, leader of the Texas Association of Business, is accused of sexual assault and harassment.
• An anonymous plaintiff known as “Jane Doe” filed the Hamer lawsuit seeking over $10 million in damages.
• The lawsuit claims Hamer used his influence to groom and then retaliate when she rejected him.
• The Texas Association of Business placed Hamer on leave and named an interim CEO.
• The case raises questions about power abuse in Texas’s top business and political circles.

What happened?

A lawsuit filed in Travis County accuses Glenn Hamer, the president and CEO of the Texas Association of Business, of sexually harassing and assaulting a woman. In her 13-page filing, the plaintiff, called “Jane Doe,” says Hamer used his powerful role to pressure her into a relationship. When she refused, the suit says, he turned on her and tried to ruin her career.

Inside the Hamer Lawsuit Allegations

The Hamer lawsuit states that beginning in 2022, Hamer offered to help Jane Doe advance her advocacy group for startups. He even connected her with key people. At the time, Hamer also chaired the Texas Venture Alliance, the same group Doe led. The two organizations had teamed up in 2024 to boost entrepreneurship.

According to the suit, Hamer first pursued Doe with flattery and promises. Then in May, he tried to remove her pants and “mount” her at an event. When she escaped, he followed her and kept trying. Afterward, he apologized, saying he was “disgusted with himself” and offered cash to make her “forget about it.” She refused.

The Hamer lawsuit also lists two other incidents, one in June in Denton and another in October in Washington, where he allegedly made unwanted sexual advances. When Doe again said no, the suit says Hamer began a campaign of retaliation.

Retaliation and Damage to Reputation

The lawsuit claims that Hamer used his status to smear Doe’s reputation. He rerouted a planned donation away from her group and helped set up a rival organization. Then he allegedly handed that new group Doe’s own business plans and ideas. As her salary depended on her group’s income, these actions threatened her job and her dream.

Moreover, the suit accuses Hamer of stalking Doe at events, following her in hotel hallways, and turning mutual friends against her. She says these acts left her isolated and afraid to speak up for fear of losing support in the business community.

TAB’s Response and Interim Changes

Immediately after the lawsuit became public, the Texas Association of Business put Hamer on administrative leave. The board named Megan Mauro, the vice president and chief of staff, as interim CEO. In a statement, the board chair said they will conduct a full internal review.

The suit also names the association itself as a defendant. It argues TAB allowed Hamer to remain in power despite knowing about past complaints. The group allegedly lacked policies to stop such abuse. This aspect of the Hamer lawsuit raises questions about oversight at one of Texas’s most influential business organizations.

Possible Consequences for Hamer and TAB

If the court sides with Doe, Hamer could face more than $10 million in damages. The case also could spark new rules to protect employees and partners of major groups like TAB. Meanwhile, Hamer remains a registered lobbyist who often appears with top state leaders. His absence from the group’s leadership could affect TAB’s lobbying power on issues from taxes to tort reform.

Similar Power Abuse Cases in Texas

This is not the first time Texas’s political or business elite have faced such allegations. In 2023, a state representative resigned after admitting to a sex scandal with a younger staffer. Years earlier, a false rape claim against a senator led to minor reforms at the Capitol. In each case, the state’s leaders promised better protection for victims, but critics say change has been slow.

Why This Case Matters

The Hamer lawsuit shines a light on how power can be misused in private and public sectors. It warns that without clear policies and swift action, victims may stay silent. For young entrepreneurs and advocates, it also shows the risks of building ties with powerful figures.

What Comes Next

Legal experts say the case could move slowly as both sides exchange documents and witness statements. TAB’s internal review will run alongside the lawsuit. If more people come forward with similar claims, the case could grow into a wider scandal. For now, all eyes are on the court filings and on whether other high-profile figures will speak up.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did Jane Doe file the Hamer lawsuit?

Jane Doe filed the lawsuit to seek justice and compensation after alleged sexual assault, harassment, and retaliation by Glenn Hamer. She claims he abused his power when she rejected his advances.

What does the lawsuit say TAB did wrong?

The lawsuit accuses the Texas Association of Business of letting Hamer stay in power despite knowing about past complaints. It also says the group had no policies to stop such behavior, making it liable for Hamer’s actions.

What has TAB done so far in response?

TAB placed Glenn Hamer on administrative leave and named Megan Mauro as interim CEO. The group’s board announced a full internal investigation into the allegations.

How could this case affect Texas politics?

The case could lead to stronger workplace protections and more scrutiny of lobbyists and business groups. It may also influence how leaders handle future harassment claims in both public and private sectors.