Women's rights activists are calling for change after allegations the White House knew about the domestic abuse allegations against a former staff member for months.

Elizabeth Zimmerman, the co-president of the Westchester chapter of the National Organization for Women, says it is horrifying that domestic abuse still happens.

"I think a lot of people have a hard time when they look at an accused person like Rob Porter," Zimmerman says. "He's well spoken, he's polished, he went to Harvard Law School, so they're prone to believe him and say 'how does this happen?'"

This comes after now-former White House Staff Secretary Rob Porter resigned on Wednesday after both of his ex-wives spoke out about alleged abuse by him.

Porter denies the claims and said in a statement that the "outrageous allegations are simply false."

The White House is standing by Porter. Chief of Staff John Kelly called him a man of "true integrity" and a "trusted professional."

Porter says he will stay on to ensure a smooth transition for his replacement. The White House has not confirmed his last day.