Why didn't he wear it at the Palin rally?
Fired UP!!
Friday, October 10, 2008
Thoughts .........
Black Political Thought
http://blackpoliticalthought.blogspot.com/2008/10/feds-launch-investigation-lee-county.html
Petition for the Reprimand of Sheriff Mike Scott
http://fortmyers.craigslist.org/pol/871276334.html
Gather
http://www.gather.com/viewArticle.jsp?articleId=281474977473403
Harmony Central
http://acapella.harmony-central.com/forums/showthread.php?p=30586905
The Bristows.com
http://www.thebristows.com/blog/opinions/he-who-must-not-be-named
MSNBC
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/27081023/
Subdriven
http://forums.subdriven.com/zerothread?id=4065233&page=2
Steve Peters's Blog
http://my.barackobama.com/page/community/post/stevepeters/gGgKcG
http://blackpoliticalthought.blogspot.com/2008/10/feds-launch-investigation-lee-county.html
Petition for the Reprimand of Sheriff Mike Scott
http://fortmyers.craigslist.org/pol/871276334.html
Gather
http://www.gather.com/viewArticle.jsp?articleId=281474977473403
Harmony Central
http://acapella.harmony-central.com/forums/showthread.php?p=30586905
The Bristows.com
http://www.thebristows.com/blog/opinions/he-who-must-not-be-named
MSNBC
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/27081023/
Subdriven
http://forums.subdriven.com/zerothread?id=4065233&page=2
Steve Peters's Blog
http://my.barackobama.com/page/community/post/stevepeters/gGgKcG
What do the Voters think about Scott (part 2)
LOST MY VOTE I’m sorry, but I just don’t buy the innocence act. It was evident that the Lee county sheriff was at a political function voicing his political preference and using the power of his position to influence voters. Personally, I get it that he is a republican and that he wants to see other republicans voted into office, I respect that. What I can not abide is a person willing to use the power of his supposedly neutral office to pressure the same people he is charged with protecting. This is a man carrying a gun telling you who to vote for. Myself I will no longer vote for the man, which is the only influence I have and will gladly see anybody else in the sheriff position as it is clear to me that Mike Scott can not be objective in his duties.
Scott can deny his intentions till the cows come home, but that only adds "liar" to the list of his indiscretions. What a sorry state of affairs when one of our elected officials cannot admit that he made a mistake. Even the McCain-Palin campaign has denounced his behavior, so what does that tell you? This incident was a misuse of his position in addition to just being downright nasty. Have you noticed how this type of behavior is absent from Obama's speeches? He gives respect and admiration to his opponent, while firmly disagreeing with McCain's plans for getting us out of all our messes. That's called "class"...something that is sorely missing in our sheriff.
Politics in law enforcement should be limited. There's no reason for it. You're there to protect us with the laws that polititians pass, that you and your department must enforce. The office of the Sheriff should ne neutral, politically.
That stain would probably fade faster if he just apologized to those he offended. Whether he meant harm or not isn't the point. Men of good character apologize when they offend people.
this guy must be fire!! we don't need racist sheriff, the segregation it's over since 1960
He is obviously the 3rd type of person he described. Wondering what happened and why the FEDS are investigating me.I as a Police Officer, think SHERIFF SCROTUM HEAD has just disgraced his uniform and all of us who wear one.
Sheriff is a SHITHEAD cause he broke a FEDERAL LAW - he used his uniform for political purpose. That causes an IMAGE of IMPROPRIETY for an OATH of Law enforcers to IMPARTIALLY ENFORCE the LAW.Not because he called Obama by his middle name Hussein. Learn to read.
Scott can say whatever he wants, but not be part of a rally on duty time, know the law, idiot. Feds are now investigating him for breaking the law, not for saying Hussein, but for breaking the law.
Hey dumb flatfoot you forgot the 4th kind of people YOU lol. your gonna wonder what happened to your job
Good to see Mike Scott is under investigation for his racially aggravated comment by the FBI. Here's hoping Scott loses his job around the same time his party loses the election.
I was a Marine Infantryman MOS 0331 (machinegunner). I serve now as a Police Officer. It is one thing to disagree on politics and policy- its another to spread outright LIES.Another message for this FAG SHERIFF- stop using your uniform for political purpose. The PUBLIC EXPECTATION of IMPARTIAL LAW ENFORCEMNT is PARAMOUNT to our profession. Your a DISGRACE to that uniform and all of us who wear one.
WTF...? Who is a Muslim...? Obama...? You dipshits better come up with some PROOF/FACTS before you spew out BULLSHIT!Barack Huessein Obama was born in USA. He is the son of a WHITE WOMEN and KENYAN FATHER. His grandfather is a REAL HERO unlike this FAGGOT SHERIFF. His Grandfather served under Gen. Patton- part THE GREATEST GENERATION to have LIVED. He saved the world from real TYRANNY and he would be turning in his grave listening to you SCUMBAGS disparage his grandson (Obama) with LIES.
This sheriff should have known better than to wear his uniform and show his right wing bais i hope he gets fired. He is arrogant and i am sure he abuses his powers in his county.
Scott can deny his intentions till the cows come home, but that only adds "liar" to the list of his indiscretions. What a sorry state of affairs when one of our elected officials cannot admit that he made a mistake. Even the McCain-Palin campaign has denounced his behavior, so what does that tell you? This incident was a misuse of his position in addition to just being downright nasty. Have you noticed how this type of behavior is absent from Obama's speeches? He gives respect and admiration to his opponent, while firmly disagreeing with McCain's plans for getting us out of all our messes. That's called "class"...something that is sorely missing in our sheriff.
Politics in law enforcement should be limited. There's no reason for it. You're there to protect us with the laws that polititians pass, that you and your department must enforce. The office of the Sheriff should ne neutral, politically.
That stain would probably fade faster if he just apologized to those he offended. Whether he meant harm or not isn't the point. Men of good character apologize when they offend people.
this guy must be fire!! we don't need racist sheriff, the segregation it's over since 1960
He is obviously the 3rd type of person he described. Wondering what happened and why the FEDS are investigating me.I as a Police Officer, think SHERIFF SCROTUM HEAD has just disgraced his uniform and all of us who wear one.
Sheriff is a SHITHEAD cause he broke a FEDERAL LAW - he used his uniform for political purpose. That causes an IMAGE of IMPROPRIETY for an OATH of Law enforcers to IMPARTIALLY ENFORCE the LAW.Not because he called Obama by his middle name Hussein. Learn to read.
Scott can say whatever he wants, but not be part of a rally on duty time, know the law, idiot. Feds are now investigating him for breaking the law, not for saying Hussein, but for breaking the law.
Hey dumb flatfoot you forgot the 4th kind of people YOU lol. your gonna wonder what happened to your job
Good to see Mike Scott is under investigation for his racially aggravated comment by the FBI. Here's hoping Scott loses his job around the same time his party loses the election.
I was a Marine Infantryman MOS 0331 (machinegunner). I serve now as a Police Officer. It is one thing to disagree on politics and policy- its another to spread outright LIES.Another message for this FAG SHERIFF- stop using your uniform for political purpose. The PUBLIC EXPECTATION of IMPARTIAL LAW ENFORCEMNT is PARAMOUNT to our profession. Your a DISGRACE to that uniform and all of us who wear one.
WTF...? Who is a Muslim...? Obama...? You dipshits better come up with some PROOF/FACTS before you spew out BULLSHIT!Barack Huessein Obama was born in USA. He is the son of a WHITE WOMEN and KENYAN FATHER. His grandfather is a REAL HERO unlike this FAGGOT SHERIFF. His Grandfather served under Gen. Patton- part THE GREATEST GENERATION to have LIVED. He saved the world from real TYRANNY and he would be turning in his grave listening to you SCUMBAGS disparage his grandson (Obama) with LIES.
This sheriff should have known better than to wear his uniform and show his right wing bais i hope he gets fired. He is arrogant and i am sure he abuses his powers in his county.
What do the Voters think about Scott!
"I think Scott is a big bully. He knew what he was doing when he used Obama's middle name. When Republicans don't have a plan or a message, they start attacking people's character. That worked for them in the last two presidential elections, but not this one. By the way, bullies never apologize.''
"Is it me or is Scott drunk with his little power? For the amount of times I see him in that green uniform, do you think his pajamas are also a matching green uniform?''
"Thank you for what you said about somebody's sheriff. He certainly isn't my sheriff. What is it with our sheriffs in Lee County? Can't they get over themselves? Do they think they have the right to do whatever they want because they've been elected?''
Stop wasting tax money in the Sheriff Dept. Mike Scott is a BIG spender of tax money and campaign money. My choice, for a cost-effective and qualified sheriff, is Christian MEISTER.
"Is it me or is Scott drunk with his little power? For the amount of times I see him in that green uniform, do you think his pajamas are also a matching green uniform?''
"Thank you for what you said about somebody's sheriff. He certainly isn't my sheriff. What is it with our sheriffs in Lee County? Can't they get over themselves? Do they think they have the right to do whatever they want because they've been elected?''
Stop wasting tax money in the Sheriff Dept. Mike Scott is a BIG spender of tax money and campaign money. My choice, for a cost-effective and qualified sheriff, is Christian MEISTER.
Wednesday, October 8, 2008
Once again no apology
Once again no apology, why?
Sheriff Mike Scott please take your head out of your ass and apologize to the citizens of Lee County.
What about the Lee County Ethics Violation ?
Lee County: Code of Ethics 206:5
POLITICAL ACTIVITY & UNLAWFUL ACTS PROHIBITED
3b) Wear any uniform or clothing that would tend to identify that employee as a County employee/representative while engaged in political campaign, political event not sponsored by the County or while seeking public political office – even if that employee is off duty.
3c) Use the authority of his position to secure support for or oppose any candidate, party, or issue in an election or affect the results thereof.
4. Employees assigned to positions in departments receiving Federal funds or whose salaries are paid from Federal funds are subject to the provisions of the Federal Hatch Act regarding political activities. Pretty much spelled out !
Statement from Lee County Sheriff Mike Scott
Below is the full, unedited statement released by Lee County Sheriff Mike Scott regarding his speech at the Sarah Palin rally on Monday.
Statement from Lee County Sheriff Mike Scott
Following 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.
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.
Tuesday, October 7, 2008
Sheriff Scott listen to the voters of Lee County
Sheriff Mike Scott please take your head out of your ass and apologize to the citizens of Lee County.
What are the citizens saying --------
You're right. If of Scott's underlings (a non-relative, that is) had made the statement and then denied doing so with any "intent," the person would be interrogated by Internal Affairs, polygraphed, and FIRED.
I now have a very dim view of Sheriff Scott and his distasteful show at Germain Arena and lack professionalism. I am surprised that hopes to be reelected and pull such a stunt. Lee County needs good people who are professionals and can promote Lee county properly to visitors to our fine county. Does he really have a job description to follow?
Mr Scott should be COMPLETLY appologized to after the media twisting this out of control and making a "mess" of his right to speak.
Scott knows exactly what he did and he is a liar if he is saying that he had no "ill intent" when he choose to call Obama by his full name. It was a cheap shot and the Republican Parthy themselves has distanced themselves from the careless and pathetic political swipe. While in uniform, on city time and payroll, Scott choose to play politics instead of doing his job and protecting the public. Should we pay all of our public servants to attend political rallys and use taxpayers money to fund their political interests? I can assure you that had Scott been a Democrat and attended a political rally in uniform and at taxpayers expense, the Republicans would be calling for his resignation and an investigation.
I now have a very dim view of Sheriff Scott and his distasteful show at Germain Arena and lack professionalism. I am surprised that hopes to be reelected and pull such a stunt. Lee County needs good people who are professionals and can promote Lee county properly to visitors to our fine county. Does he really have a job description to follow?
Mr Scott should be COMPLETLY appologized to after the media twisting this out of control and making a "mess" of his right to speak.
Scott knows exactly what he did and he is a liar if he is saying that he had no "ill intent" when he choose to call Obama by his full name. It was a cheap shot and the Republican Parthy themselves has distanced themselves from the careless and pathetic political swipe. While in uniform, on city time and payroll, Scott choose to play politics instead of doing his job and protecting the public. Should we pay all of our public servants to attend political rallys and use taxpayers money to fund their political interests? I can assure you that had Scott been a Democrat and attended a political rally in uniform and at taxpayers expense, the Republicans would be calling for his resignation and an investigation.
Sheriff Mike Scott’s political cheap shot embarrasses Lee County
Sheriff Mike Scott’s political cheap shot embarrasses Lee County
What's all the hubbub, bub?
What's all the hubbub, bub?
Sheriff Mike Scott swears he had no ulterior motive.
"I answered a lot of e-mails and signed my middle name (Joseph) on all of them,'' says Scott, 45. "I don't see anything wrong with calling him Barack Hussein Obama.
"That is his name.''
Yes it is. Yet it was much more at Monday's rally at Germain Arena for vice presidential hopeful Gov. Sarah Palin.
When Scott dropped Obama's Muslim middle name, message boards and mailbag contributors exploded.
"This must be the biggest news in the world. Is there nothing more important going on?'' Scott asks sarcastically. "It absolutely shocks me. And I'm appalled by some of the e-mails. They are hateful and spiteful.''
Scott, in an interview Tuesday with news-press.com and The News-Press, says he doesn't comprehend the commotion his name-calling put in motion.
"I was told to speak three to four minutes and fire up the crowd,'' he says. "Help welcome her to Southwest Florida.
"That's pretty much what I did. I've watched that tape over and over. I don't see any malice. What I said was truthful and accurate. I did not say anything unethical, immoral or illegal.''
That's a matter of opinion.
If Scott didn't believe name-dropping "Hussein'' would create upheaval in Southwest Florida, he isn't the astute politician who captured 91 percent of the vote in Lee County's Republican primary victory last month.
Again, Scott says he won't back down from his comment.
"I'll never, ever, ever apologize,'' he says. "There is nothing in my mind to apologize for. I just can't do it. That's all. It's the principle of the thing.''
Politically speaking - even for a landslide winner - his remark was one dumb move.
Scott appears puffed up by his own popularity, free to spew flammable rhetoric without threat of consequence.
The negative connotation the name Hussein carries does not need an explanation.
After hearing Scott's remark, would Muslims in Lee believe they would receive the same level of service from the sheriff's office as others?
"What does a name have to do with level of protection?'' Scott asks. "Anybody of Muslim origin that thinks that way is wrong. In my four years as sheriff, I've never been biased toward a group of people.''
Will his remark cost him votes Nov. 4?
"I have no idea. I can't get into the minds of these people who were offended,'' Scott says. "I only know for sure how one person will vote. I'm going to vote for myself. But I think my wife and mother will probably vote for me, too.''
Scott, contacted last Thursday, says neither Republican camp asked to see his speech.
What motivated Scott?
"I don't use notes and I put the speech together about 10 minutes before I gave it,'' he says. "Instead of saying Sen. Obama, I said Barack Hussein Obama. There wasn't really an intent or motive. That's his name. To me, it seems simple, but it's become so complicated.''
Yes, it's combustible.
The telephone hasn't stopped ringing at the Lee County Sheriff's Office, where staffers say residents are split on right or wrong. In a news-press.com poll, asking if you agree with Scott using Hussein, the sheriff held a 51-38 percent lead at 6 p.m. Tuesday; 11 percent didn't care. In e-mails to The News-Press Mailbag, there were 66 letters against Scott and eight in support.
In the sheriff's speech, he spoke about difference-makers in society, describing three types of people.
"(There are) the ones who make things happen, the ones who watch what happens and the ones who wonder what happened.''
He exhorted the crowd to put Obama in the last group Nov. 4.
"Let's leave Barack Hussein Obama wondering what happened.''
Scott says backlash from McCain and Palin camps - they denounced his comments and distanced themselves - perturbed him.
"That's the hypocrisy of politics,'' he says. "I didn't link Obama to terrorists like one speaker. That's not my style.''
Another matter of opinion.
Scott defended his outspokenness by saying political correctness is out of control.
"There is an 'F' word and an 'N' word,'' Scott says. "But is there also an 'H' word that is off limits? I wasn't accusing Obama of anything. I feel absolutely no remorse.''
Another matter of opinion.
Scott's blast at Obama was a cheap shot - and his oratory politically embarrassed Lee.
"What happened to the First Amendment?'' he asks. "What about freedom of speech?
"I went out there to get people excited about Gov. Palin. I didn't throw up my hands when I said all three names. I did it with a fluid expression.''
I saw the tape differently.
Mine had a wild-eyed man in uniform firing salutes in different directions.
"Every elected official in the world is out campaigning right now,'' Scott says. "I'm not going to take a neutral stand because I'm wearing a uniform. There weren't any "Mike Scott for Sheriff" signs behind me. But there were for other politicians there.
"If you don't think so, which banana boat did you fall off?''
Scott says he doesn't know which party will win the election - but it will be close.
"I'll tell you one thing,'' he says. "If the Democrats do win, he will be sworn in by three names: Barack Hussein Obama.
"I'll tell you one thing,'' he says. "If the Democrats do win, he will be sworn in by three names: Barack Hussein Obama.
"I can guarantee that.''
And I can guarantee the sheriff hasn't heard the last of his name-calling rhetoric.
Local ACLU and NAACP have called for an apology, saying Scott’s action was racist
One day after Lee County Sheriff Mike Scott sparked national controversy by referring to Democratic presidential candidate as Barack Hussein Obama, the federal government is investigating a complaint about his remark and members of the local ACLU and NAACP have called for an apology, saying Scott’s action was racist.
A complaint sent to the U.S. Office of Special Counsel alleges that Scott violated the Hatch Act because his agency receives federal dollars, and Scott was engaging in political activity while on duty and in uniform. Erica S. Hamrick, senior attorney for the agency, said in an e-mail Tuesday that an investigation was being opened. Neither she nor her office could be reached for further comment Tuesday. Spokespeople for McCain and Palin quickly distanced their camps from Scott’s use of the name. The Obama campaign could not be reached for comment.
James Muwakkil, founder of the 300-member Fort Myers Coalition for Justice and a life member of the NAACP and ACLU, called for a formal apology. He said that while he supports the sheriff’s right to speak his mind, he criticized him for doing so while in uniform. He felt it was an affront to all county residents who may not share the sheriff’s views. He also felt there were racial connotations. “He spoke in an inflammatory manner,” Muwakkil said. “As a citizen he has the right to free speech, but not when he represents all people with that sheriff’s uniform. That uniform represents something much bigger than him. That uniform represents justice and equality for all people.”
A complaint sent to the U.S. Office of Special Counsel alleges that Scott violated the Hatch Act because his agency receives federal dollars, and Scott was engaging in political activity while on duty and in uniform. Erica S. Hamrick, senior attorney for the agency, said in an e-mail Tuesday that an investigation was being opened. Neither she nor her office could be reached for further comment Tuesday. Spokespeople for McCain and Palin quickly distanced their camps from Scott’s use of the name. The Obama campaign could not be reached for comment.
James Muwakkil, founder of the 300-member Fort Myers Coalition for Justice and a life member of the NAACP and ACLU, called for a formal apology. He said that while he supports the sheriff’s right to speak his mind, he criticized him for doing so while in uniform. He felt it was an affront to all county residents who may not share the sheriff’s views. He also felt there were racial connotations. “He spoke in an inflammatory manner,” Muwakkil said. “As a citizen he has the right to free speech, but not when he represents all people with that sheriff’s uniform. That uniform represents something much bigger than him. That uniform represents justice and equality for all people.”
Feds to look into Lee County Sheriff Scott's 'Hussein' Obama comment at Palin rally
A federal investigation is being opened into the actions and comments of Lee County Sheriff Mike Scott at a rally for Gov. Sarah Palin in Estero on Monday. Erica S. Hamrick, senior attorney at the U.S. Office of Special Counsel, wrote in an e-mail to a third party that her office will be investigating under the Hatch Act, which governs political activities of certain elected officials.
The complainant stated the sheriff violated that act because the sheriff’s office receives federal money, engaged in political activity while on duty, engaged in political activity while in uniform, wore political buttons while on duty and used political influence or authority to interfere with an election.
The U.S. Office of Special Counsel addresses the Hatch Act as it pertains to local officials on their Web site, which states the following:“The Hatch Act applies to executive branch state and local employees who are principally employed in connection with programs financed in whole or in part by loans or grants made by the United States or a federal agency. Employees who work for educational or research institutions which are supported in whole or in part by a State or political subdivision of the State are not covered by the provisions of the Hatch Act. “Employees of private nonprofit organizations are covered by the Hatch Act only if the statute through which the organization receives its federal funds contains language which states that the organization shall be considered to be a state or local agency for purposes of the Hatch Act, e.g., Headstart and Community Service Block Grant statutes. “An employee’s conduct is also subject to the laws of the state and the regulations of the employing agency. Additionally, employees should be aware that the prohibitions of the Hatch Act are not affected by state or local laws.”
Neither Hamrick nor her office could be immediately reached for comment.
The complainant stated the sheriff violated that act because the sheriff’s office receives federal money, engaged in political activity while on duty, engaged in political activity while in uniform, wore political buttons while on duty and used political influence or authority to interfere with an election.
The U.S. Office of Special Counsel addresses the Hatch Act as it pertains to local officials on their Web site, which states the following:“The Hatch Act applies to executive branch state and local employees who are principally employed in connection with programs financed in whole or in part by loans or grants made by the United States or a federal agency. Employees who work for educational or research institutions which are supported in whole or in part by a State or political subdivision of the State are not covered by the provisions of the Hatch Act. “Employees of private nonprofit organizations are covered by the Hatch Act only if the statute through which the organization receives its federal funds contains language which states that the organization shall be considered to be a state or local agency for purposes of the Hatch Act, e.g., Headstart and Community Service Block Grant statutes. “An employee’s conduct is also subject to the laws of the state and the regulations of the employing agency. Additionally, employees should be aware that the prohibitions of the Hatch Act are not affected by state or local laws.”
Neither Hamrick nor her office could be immediately reached for comment.
Did Lee County, Florida Sheriff Mike Scott violate the rules of his office?
Did Lee County, Florida Sheriff Mike Scott violate the rules of his office (in addition to those of propriety,) when he rallied for John McCain and Sarah Palin, and attacked Barack Obama while wearing his uniform? First, the story from yesterday:
Lee County Sheriff Mike Scott took the stage moments ago as one of the introductory speakers at a rally here for Sarah Palin. After delivering brief remarks in support of Palin, Sheriff Scott flipped the switch and used Barack Obama’s middle name in order to incite the crowd of thousands of people who have already gathered here.“On Nov. 4, let’s leave Barack Hussein Obama wondering what happened,” the law enforcement officer said.Sheriff Scott essentially lent the color of police authority to the implication, by him, and by the subsequent speakers (including Sarah Palin,) not to mention right wing talk radio, Fox News, and the McCain campaign itself, that Barack Obama is an undercover Muslim who is aligned with terrorists. And not a few observers have noted that the McCain campaign is subtly dipping into racist sentiment as well, attempting to scare working class white voters about Obama's "exoticism." (There was a time when race baiting in full uniform wasn't all that uncommon for police officers in the American south, which makes the tone of Scott's appearance all the more ... well ... troubling.) Do the people Scott "protects and serves" in Lee County, which includes Fort Myers, Naples, Punta Gorda and other cities on the Gulf Coast, which I'm assuming includes at least a few black people and which does include more than 95,000 Democrats, feel comfortable with the apolitical and fair disposition of his authority today?And while the campaign attempted to distance itself ever so slightly from the remarks, they aren't much worse than what John McCain's running mate has been saying in her stump speech about Obama "palling around with terrorists," (which is funny coming from a woman who pals around with her Alaskan separatist hubby...) including the remarks she made after Scott and a talk radio host were done introducing her.
A bit about Scott, from the Lee County Sheriff's website:
Small details in Scott’s office are telling. At one corner sits a Votomatic Vote Recorder used in the 2000 Lee County election. The voting booth is the sheriff’s daily reminder to be responsive to voters who elected him to office. At the center of his conference table sits a sculpture with an arrow pointing outward, keeping him grounded and focused on the whole agency. Three framed words sit on his desk: Honesty. Trust. Integrity.
Small details in Scott’s office are telling. At one corner sits a Votomatic Vote Recorder used in the 2000 Lee County election. The voting booth is the sheriff’s daily reminder to be responsive to voters who elected him to office. At the center of his conference table sits a sculpture with an arrow pointing outward, keeping him grounded and focused on the whole agency. Three framed words sit on his desk: Honesty. Trust. Integrity.
The new sheriff’s first experience with law enforcement came in 1986 as a probation officer. He joined the Lee County Sheriff’s Office in 1988, serving as a public information officer and Southwest Florida CrimeStoppers coordinator until he resigned in April 2003 to run for sheriff. He also served as a motorcycle deputy in the Traffic Unit. His accolades include being named the 2003 Law Enforcement Coordinator of the Year by the Southeastern CrimeStoppers Association.
He didn’t always want to be in law enforcement, though. Scott had intended on becoming a dentist until advanced chemistry classes at University of South Florida made him think otherwise. He earned an undergraduate degree in political science instead. He also considered general contracting, following his father’s profession, but an economic downturn during that time pointed him in a different direction. Scott later earned his master of business administration degree from IMPAC University.
For inspiration, the sheriff looks to former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani, who Time Magazine named 2001 person of the year for his leadership in the aftermath of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center. Scott also admires the leadership of Colin Powell and H. Norman Schwarzkopf.
Well, he keeps a memento of the 2000 election (though he wasn't elected until 2004) and callsh Rudy Giuliani his inspiration ... no wonder this guy behaves like a BrownShirt...Meanwhile, Scott is standing by his comments, and apparently, calls are pouring into the Sheriff's office about them. Regarding his statements and wearing his uniform while attacking Senator Obama, Scott said this:
“I absolutely, unequivocally don’t regret saying it,” Scott said. “In order to be a speaker at this event, I had to give my full name — Michael Joseph Scott — to the Secret Service, even though I’m the sheriff of Lee County. So why would I apologize? Is there some kind of double standard here where I have to give my full name, but I can’t use his?”... “I just wanted to use his full name,” Scott said. “And frankly, if this is such a hot-button issue, he, as a Harvard lawyer, could have changed it if he didn’t like it.”Scott, who was wearing his uniform, said he was representing his own views, not his office.He defended making those comments while in uniform, though.“That’s what I wear every day,” Scott said. “That’s what I wore to the McCain rally in Tampa with my fellow sheriffs. But at no point did I say I was speaking on behalf of the sheriff’s office.”I see. Well while I'm waiting for the Lee County Public Information Office to call me back regarding the ruless about campaigning while in uniform, perhaps we should take a look at a little thing called the Hatch Act. What's that, you ask?
The Hatch Act applies to executive branch state and local employees who are principally employed in connection with programs financed in whole or in part by loans or grants made by the United States or a federal agency. Employees who work for educational or research institutions which are supported in whole or in part by a State or political subdivision of the State are not covered by the provisions of the Hatch Act.Employees of private nonprofit organizations are covered by the Hatch Act only if the statute through which the organization receives its federal funds contains language which states that the organization shall be considered to be a state or local agency for purposes of the Hatch Act, e.g., Headstart and Community Service Block Grant statutes.An employee’s conduct is also subject to the laws of the state and the regulations of the employing agency. Additionally, employees should be aware that the prohibitions of the Hatch Act are not affected by state or local laws.
... Covered state and local employees may not-
be candidates for public office in a partisan election
use official authority or influence to interfere with or affect the results of an election or nomination directly or indirectly coerce contributions from subordinates in support of a political party or candidate
So did Sheriff Scott commit a violation? I'm not an attorney, but maybe one should look into it.
Lee Sheriff makes national political news
Lee Sheriff makes national political news
Oct 7, 2008 09:44 AM EDT
Lee County Sheriff Mike Scott is making news on a national scale. On Monday, he was among several supporters introducing Republican Vice Presidential nominee Sarah Palin in Estero. The sheriff stole the spotlight when he referred to Barack Obama with his full name, "Barack Hussein Obama." Scott turned a lot of heads for standing in front of the crowd in full uniform saying this:
"Ladies and gentlemen, there's three types of people in our country today. There's people that make things happen, there's people that watch things happen and there are people that wonder what happened. On November 4th, let's leave Barack Hussein Obama wondering what happened... And we will make something happen with that tag team, Senator John McCain and Governor Sarah Palin, the next Vice President/President of the United States. Thank you, thank you for honoring me with this today."
The sheriff's use of Barack Obama's middle name immediately became the talk of national news, wondering if it was intentional and if he was trying to say Obama was Muslim. Palin's spokesperson rushed to send out a press release about Scott saying quote, "we do not condone this inappropriate rhetoric, which distracts from the real questions of judgment, character, and experience that voters will base their decisions on this November".
Mike Scott is up for re-election in November.
Oct 7, 2008 09:44 AM EDT
Lee County Sheriff Mike Scott is making news on a national scale. On Monday, he was among several supporters introducing Republican Vice Presidential nominee Sarah Palin in Estero. The sheriff stole the spotlight when he referred to Barack Obama with his full name, "Barack Hussein Obama." Scott turned a lot of heads for standing in front of the crowd in full uniform saying this:
"Ladies and gentlemen, there's three types of people in our country today. There's people that make things happen, there's people that watch things happen and there are people that wonder what happened. On November 4th, let's leave Barack Hussein Obama wondering what happened... And we will make something happen with that tag team, Senator John McCain and Governor Sarah Palin, the next Vice President/President of the United States. Thank you, thank you for honoring me with this today."
The sheriff's use of Barack Obama's middle name immediately became the talk of national news, wondering if it was intentional and if he was trying to say Obama was Muslim. Palin's spokesperson rushed to send out a press release about Scott saying quote, "we do not condone this inappropriate rhetoric, which distracts from the real questions of judgment, character, and experience that voters will base their decisions on this November".
Mike Scott is up for re-election in November.
Lee County NAACP, ACLU withdraw support of Sheriff Mike Scott
Lee County NAACP, ACLU withdraw support of Sheriff Mike Scott
500 calls in 5 hours at the LCSO
Officials in the Lee County Sheriff’s public information office have stopped counting the number of callers who called to express their complaints or praise for Sheriff Mike Scott’s comments at a rally for Gov. Sarah Palin on Monday. Lt. Robert Forrest said he stopped counting shortly before noon, but that there were approximately 500 calls total by that point
Local activists are speaking out against a statement made Monday by Sheriff Mike Scott
Local activists are speaking out against a statement made Monday by Sheriff Mike Scott, saying they will be withdrawing their support of his candidacy. James Muwakkil, founder of the Fort Myers Coalition for Justice and member of the Lee County chapters of the NAACP and ACLU, said that while he supports Scott’s right to speak his mind, he criticized him for doing so while in uniform.“He spoke in an inflammatory manner, and we want to know exactly who he was speaking to, because even the Palin campaign distanced himself from that,” Muwakkil said. “He’s saying he’s not going to apologize. Well I think he should rethink that. The point of view we’re making that Sheriff Scott to exercise his right to free speech, but he didn’t’ have the right to do it in uniform.”
Was it inappropriate for him to be wearing his uniform while making politically-charged statements.
Lee County Sheriff Mike Scott has drawn some ire from constituents and others for wearing his uniform at the rally for vice presidential candidate, Gov. Sarah Palin in Estero Monday. His controversial decision to use Barack Obama’s middle name, Hussein, during his speech, have drawn attention to the matter, and have some asking if it was inappropriate for him to be wearing his uniform while making politically-charged statements.
Sheriff Mike Scott defended his use .......
Sheriff Mike Scott defended his use of Barack Obama’s middle name, “Hussein,” while on stage Monday at a rally for vice presidential hopeful Gov. Sarah Palin. “I absolutely, unequivocally don’t regret saying it,” Scott said.
“In order to be a speaker at this event, I had to give my full name — Michael Joseph Scott — to the Secret Service, even though I’m the sheriff of Lee County. So why would I apologize? Is there some kind of double standard here where I have to give my full name, but I can’t use his?”Scott was one of several people who spoke before Palin’s arrival in front of a standing room-only crowd at Germain Arena.
When Scott took the stage, he declared the world had three types of people, “the ones who make things happen, the ones who watch what happens and the ones who wonder what happened. Let’s leave Barack Hussein Obama wondering what happened.
”The arena, about three-quarters full at the time, burst into screams and applause.Obama’s middle name comes from his father, Barack Hussein Obama, Sr., who was from Kenya.
The name is of Arabic origin and is a common last name in Muslim countries in the Middle East and Africa. Obama is a Christian.
Peter Bergerson, a politics professor at Florida Gulf Coast University, said Scott isn’t the first person to use Obama’s middle name, and given that Election Day is four weeks away, he likely won’t be the last. Bergerson said he wasn’t sure of Scott’s intentions, but others have used Obama’s middle name to allude the Democrat might be Muslim. It also reminds people of Saddam Hussein.“It’s been used by some conservative radio commentators and entertainers with a negative twist to it,” Bergerson said. “It could have been designed to remind people of Barack Obama’s father’s heritage, and it has a Muslim name to it.”Scott’s comments immediately became the talk of the cable news networks.
A McCain spokesman, Tucker Bounds, condemned the comments on MSNBC.
Palin’s spokeswoman Tracey Schmidt quickly sent out a press release, while the rally was still going on, distancing the Palin camp from the comment. “We do not condone this inappropriate rhetoric, which distracts from the real questions of judgment, character, and experience that voters will base their decisions on this November.” Scott said that didn’t change his stance.“That’s somebody else’s comment, not mine,” he said. “I have nothing to apologize for.“People have a date of birth, a Social Security number and a name. All I did was say the man’s name.” When asked why he then didn’t use Palin’s middle name, he admitted he didn’t know it. He related there are times when he uses his daughter’s middle name, and this should be viewed as no different. “I just wanted to use his full name,” Scott said. “And frankly, if this is such a hot-button issue, he, as a Harvard lawyer, could have changed it if he didn’t like it.” Scott, who was wearing his uniform, said he was representing his own views, not his office.He defended making those comments while in uniform, though.“That’s what I wear every day,” Scott said. “That’s what I wore to the McCain rally in Tampa with my fellow sheriffs. But at no point did I say I was speaking on behalf of the sheriff’s office.”
“In order to be a speaker at this event, I had to give my full name — Michael Joseph Scott — to the Secret Service, even though I’m the sheriff of Lee County. So why would I apologize? Is there some kind of double standard here where I have to give my full name, but I can’t use his?”Scott was one of several people who spoke before Palin’s arrival in front of a standing room-only crowd at Germain Arena.
When Scott took the stage, he declared the world had three types of people, “the ones who make things happen, the ones who watch what happens and the ones who wonder what happened. Let’s leave Barack Hussein Obama wondering what happened.
”The arena, about three-quarters full at the time, burst into screams and applause.Obama’s middle name comes from his father, Barack Hussein Obama, Sr., who was from Kenya.
The name is of Arabic origin and is a common last name in Muslim countries in the Middle East and Africa. Obama is a Christian.
Peter Bergerson, a politics professor at Florida Gulf Coast University, said Scott isn’t the first person to use Obama’s middle name, and given that Election Day is four weeks away, he likely won’t be the last. Bergerson said he wasn’t sure of Scott’s intentions, but others have used Obama’s middle name to allude the Democrat might be Muslim. It also reminds people of Saddam Hussein.“It’s been used by some conservative radio commentators and entertainers with a negative twist to it,” Bergerson said. “It could have been designed to remind people of Barack Obama’s father’s heritage, and it has a Muslim name to it.”Scott’s comments immediately became the talk of the cable news networks.
A McCain spokesman, Tucker Bounds, condemned the comments on MSNBC.
Palin’s spokeswoman Tracey Schmidt quickly sent out a press release, while the rally was still going on, distancing the Palin camp from the comment. “We do not condone this inappropriate rhetoric, which distracts from the real questions of judgment, character, and experience that voters will base their decisions on this November.” Scott said that didn’t change his stance.“That’s somebody else’s comment, not mine,” he said. “I have nothing to apologize for.“People have a date of birth, a Social Security number and a name. All I did was say the man’s name.” When asked why he then didn’t use Palin’s middle name, he admitted he didn’t know it. He related there are times when he uses his daughter’s middle name, and this should be viewed as no different. “I just wanted to use his full name,” Scott said. “And frankly, if this is such a hot-button issue, he, as a Harvard lawyer, could have changed it if he didn’t like it.” Scott, who was wearing his uniform, said he was representing his own views, not his office.He defended making those comments while in uniform, though.“That’s what I wear every day,” Scott said. “That’s what I wore to the McCain rally in Tampa with my fellow sheriffs. But at no point did I say I was speaking on behalf of the sheriff’s office.”
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