Rutherford County Manager's "Bullshit" Remark Caught on Hot Mic Sparks Controversy
Plus word-for-word video with Cops & Congress commentary
During the Rutherford County commissioners meeting on April 8, County Manager Steve Garrison was caught muttering "bullshit" on a hot mic, sending shockwaves through the community and local government. The incident, which I exclusively reported, has drawn both criticism and support from residents and officials.
The unexpected remark came to light during a livestream of the county commissioners’ meeting. In the video, Garrison's muttered comment was audible as discussions unfolded regarding local governance. I’m mostly deaf and read lips, I zoomed in on his face to confirm he said it. Watch it below with Cops & Congress commentary. [Watch on YouTube and/or read an unedited transcript on DocumentCloud.]
Despite the incident being captured on the county commissioners' livestream, Chairman Bryan King did not address the incident during the meeting or publicly since, but spoke to a local radio station the following day, expressing frustration over the role of social media in governance. King said, "Social media just messes everything up because it's the keyboard warriors that think they know everything."
King emphasized the importance of collective decision-making within governing bodies, highlighting the need for unity among officials. "When you serve on the City Council or board of commissioners, you govern as a body," he stated. "It's the body that makes a decision."
He further urged officials to uphold respect and professionalism during disagreements, emphasizing the value of constructive dialogue. "Governing as a body and having a conversation, even having disagreements, allows [us] to open up," King said.
The incident has prompted reflection on the dynamics of local governance and the challenges posed by social media in today's political landscape. While some residents have criticized Garrison's remark as unprofessional, others have defended it as a candid expression of frustration, as budget season is underway.
As discussions continue within the community, the incident serves as a reminder of the complexities inherent in public office and the need for civility and decorum in government proceedings. Stay tuned for further updates as the story develops.
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