This week something extraordinary happened and it has many people understandably riled up.
James Calkins, a candidate for the District 4 commission seat attended a Walton County Public Works Department employee gathering. He was apparently the only political candidate present except for candidates who have already been elected and serve in an official capacity.
He was seen in pictures spending time with Commissioner Danny Glidewell and he also appeared to have political brochures in his pocket.
Folks are understandably annoyed that employees were subjected to political campaigning and the associated pressures of such an encounter at an event that was designed to celebrate and reward the work and contributions of the hardworking employees.
Commissioner Dan Curry recently sent an email apologizing to county employees. You can read his statement here:
The Walton County Republican Party is so incensed by the matter, that they have asked people to file a complaint with the Florida Elections Commission. Their Facebook statement reads in part:
Tax-payer funded interference with the Republican Party nomination process will not be tolerated. The Republican Party of Florida believes strongly in the integrity of our elections and the proper use of taxpayer resources.
Florida law clearly prohibits the use of public office, government facilities, or taxpayer-funded time for political campaigning.
A few weeks ago, Calkins was seen at the Walton County Fair’s Annual Board Meeting talking to Commissioner Glidewell and former commissioner, Mike Barker. I have also received numerous reports that Calkins has been seen at the home of Uriah Matthews, a Glidewell supporter.
Though many have suggested that Commissioner Glidewell invited Calkins, so far nobody has come forward to assert first-hand knowledge. Glidewell, who has issued written and video statements to deny allegations in the past, has not denied these allegations and Calkins has not issued any statement or responded to any of the many Facebook posts.