I was struck by an article in our local newspaper the Frederick News Post this morning. A local radio host, Blaine Young was criticized for not giving up his radio show when recently appointed to the position of Frederick County commissioner.
Here's my issue. Blaine Young was appointed to this post after a sitting commissioner stepped down. Now commissioner Young agreed to step down from his show when he files to run for the post in the fall. However there is no law the requires that he stop broadcasting in his current position. The headline in the paper reads "Local Democrats launch campaign to force Young off radio show" What happened to free speech? Mr. Young is not an active candidate therefore he is not violating any campaign laws. The group attacking Mr. Young clearly stated he is not violating any laws but he is, in their opinion, violating the "spirit" of the law.
The issue here is not specific to Blaine Young. The issue is that when certain groups want something their intent overrides the letter of the law. However when those they disagree with do something they don't like then the "spirit" of the law overrides the letter.
Mr. Young has been on the air for 13 years. While I have to admit he can be a little rough around the edges at times, you never have to wonder where he stands on an issue. I find that refreshing. Perhaps that's what scares his accusers. I only hope Mr. Young and WFMD, the station that carries his show refuse to bow to this pressure.
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