Back to our cynical state “ethics” commission.
Now we have Robert Farmer, head of the North Carolina “Ethics” Commission, trying to have it both ways. He wants to both serve the commission, and by extension the governor, the state government, and the General Assembly and criticize the framework of the commission.
“If an executive branch agency disciplines an employee, you may never know it,” said Ethics Commission Chairman Robert Farmer, who opposes the secrecy. “And if the Legislative Ethics Committee doesn’t recommend a sanction to the House or the Senate, you’ll never know about it.” …
Farmer, a former judge and legislator, favors openness once complaints are substantiated and charges are filed, but before they’re proved at trial — the same way criminal courts operate for ordinary citizens.
“It concerns me that it’s this way,” Farmer said. “I think it ought to be open to the public.”
If that is what Mr. Farmer believes, then he should resign in protest immediately. Nothing would draw attention to this issue like someone taking a stand for reform in Raleigh.
Which is why I’d be shocked and amazed if it happens.
