Dear Source:
I must start out by stating I am no fan of Roger Morgan, nor do I have anything specific against him. Having stated this to establish my neutrality in the situation, I wish to address the statements attributed in the Source, to Senator James at the latest 'town meeting', and must question whether or not these are accurate quotes.
He accuses Mr. Morgan of the following. "We are accusing you of taking advantage of the public airways for your own personal benefit". My understanding is; a private radio station is supposed to operate at a profit and benefit the operator and employees. The next quote, if true, is scary; But the fact is we sat here while you were encouraging people to remove four of us over a 60-day period, and after that process I don't know why you thought we were going to just sit back."
Do Senator James and his fellow petitioners actually wonder why, when someone practices an essential freedom, they are surprised and possibly frightened when their livelihood is threatened by overt public retribution and revenge? I would think that public disagreement would come with the territory when one chooses to run for office. I would further state is should be a necessity under a democracy.
I sense a more all encompassing warning to all of us who might decide to disagree with our 'elected' officials. Don't do it, if you want to continue doing business in this territory. You might find it impossible to renew a license, get a building inspection or tax clearance letter; who knows? I sincerely hope these quotes are inaccurate. If they are correct, those in power that stand back and watch this abuse of position and privilege, yet choose to do nothing to correct the situation, are as guilty as those who are actively participating. However you want to state it, the threat is real. This time, Mr. Morgan is being used as an example to others should they choose to exercise their rights, as citizens and voters, if those rights conflict with the wishes of those in power. It might not effect us directly at this time, but who knows what the future holds.
Where are the checks and balances?
Ken Floyd
St. Croix
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