SC’s only female senator says sexist comments went too far

COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) — South Carolina’s only female senator says a Republican colleague made upsetting, sexist remarks to her at a dinner that she hopes he never says again.

Republican Sen. Katrina Shealy of Lexington said Friday that Sen. Tom Corbin of Travelers Rest referred to women as a “lesser cut of meat” while they dined with others Tuesday. She said he was referring to rib meat, after saying God made Eve from Adam’s rib.

She says Corbin thinks such comments are an ongoing joke between them. The two sat beside each other in Senate chambers for the last two years.

But Shealy says she’s told him repeatedly it’s not funny. She said Tuesday’s comments went too far and she made it clear she deserves respect.

Corbin did not immediately return messages seeking comment.