Statement from Lee County Sheriff Mike ScottFollowing the political event on Monday of this week, I have employed my usual and consistent practice of full accessibility to print, radio, and television media, as well as the general public. As always, my support staff in our Public Information Office has been equally accessible and accommodating. Understanding the interest and attention given my speech during the rally, I am submitting this release in advance of what is seemingly an insatiable appetite for continued discussion and debate over the matter. I have determined that there are a few primary points to address in this release as my final communication, and I have directed our Public Information Office to disengage with you on this topic until further advised. I have tried to make the points clear for your anticipated continuation of coverage.
Everyone seems to agree on the underlying issue…my mention of a Presidential candidate’s full, legal name of record. There were no accusations, innuendos, untruths, or malicious words before or after the candidate’s name; although many others have made inflammatory statements about the candidate’s character, etc. I did not change my tone or otherwise punctuate or repeat the name with any verbal or physical emphasis.
“Why” did I use the Candidate’s full, legal name of record? Despite varying inferences, interpretations, opinions, and extrapolations; the answer is because I wanted to, much like I wanted to voice my support for the Barron Collier Marching Band.
The issue of my status as an elected official participating in a political rally has been raised along with the suggestion that this somehow clouds my representation of all constituents. I have not heard similar concern over the many other elected officials that day and everyday engaging in the same activities across our state and country. For example – Governor Crist is the Governor of all Florida’s people and his support of the Republican ticket in no way implies diminished concern for anyone opposing his political choice. Likewise, my political choices against the backdrop of my proven record of service, in no way suggest diminished concern for any individual or group.
The issue of my appearance at the rally in uniform has been raised. It is noteworthy that I recently completed my primary campaign and continue my general campaign in the same uniform. My practice has been to wear the uniform at all times and as is undisputed, I am on duty 24/7 and 365. It is also noteworthy that I joined my fellow Florida Sheriffs in Tampa very recently for a political rally…all were in full uniform. At no time during this week’s rally did I mention the agency I represent; however, I was introduced by my official title. Given the introduction and my widespread name and face recognition in this area, I am satisfied that my apparel is irrelevant and the same reactions would have resulted had I been wearing a suit and tie.
The issue of the NAACP and Coalition for Justice instigating the “race card” and somehow deciding that my political choice and/or use of a candidate’s full, legal name of record makes me a racist flies in the face of reason. The strong support these groups have always provided me is rooted in my tireless efforts to work equally hard for all of Lee County. I delivered the Dunbar Community Policing Office and shocked business owners along MLK Jr. Blvd. by regularly stopping in to say hello during my first term as Sheriff. If their support is so shallow as to wane over one (1) word that was legal, accurate, and void of supporting malice beyond dispute, then I will respectfully move on without their political support and without change to my loyalty to them or their constituents.
Finally, the complaint made to Federal authorities relative to the first four (4) items listed above. Much as when our agency or yours is called with accusations of wrongdoing, we receive the concern and begin an initial inquiry to determine if further investigation is warranted. I have not been contacted by any authority at this point and am completely unaware of any rules or regulations violated. If “elected officials” are governed by the Hatch Act or similar laws governing political activity…I refer you back to item three (3) above and the fact that everyday and nearly around the clock across our country, elected officials are engaged in political activities. In short, I expect to be fully cleared of any wrongdoing.
This media release will serve as final comment on my use of another person’s name.