Ethics Commissioner Stan McDonald has resigned from his position with the Ethics Commission one week after going toe-to-toe with State Rep. Matt Simpson (R-Daphne) over a proposed overhaul of Alabama’s ethics laws.
McDonald’s announcement came on the same day that he published a public apology to Simpson after the two had a heated exchange over the proposed legislation. In dueling radio exchanges, McDonald accused Simpson of being a Democrat, while Simpson pointed out that McDonald inadvertently admitted to breaking current ethics laws by contributing to political candidates.
“Reflecting upon my learning this past week that some of my actions while serving as a member of the Alabama Ethics Commission are very possibly prohibited by law, I have decided to hereby resign from the Alabama Ethics Commission,” McDonald said in a statement. My breach was unintentional, but I know it's right to own my actions.”
Last week, the House of Representatives passed House Bill 227, which would overhaul the state's ethics law, change penalties for certain offenses, and revise the role of the state ethics commission and the appointment process of the commission's director.
See: House passes ethics law overhaul — ‘These are the lines; if you cross them, we’re coming for you'
Shortly after, during an appearance on Mobile radio FM Talk 106.5's "The Jeff Poor Show," McDonald viciously attacked the bill, which led to several personal attacks aimed at Simpson.
McDonald accused Simpson of being a Democrat and using Democrat rhetoric to defend his effort. He also suggested that potential personal incentives for legislators from the gambling industry were a motivation to change Alabama's ethics laws.
Later that same day, during an appearance on FM Talk 106.5's "Midday Mobile," Simpson responded to McDonald by accusing him of committing a felony for having donated to candidates of a political campaign, which the Daphne lawmaker argued was a violation of the existing ethics law that prohibits Ethics Commissioners from taking part in "partisan political activity" and making political contributions.
“I've learned from learned folks over the years that sometimes when you mess up, all you can do is make a better decision next time,” McDonald continued in his statement. It's called doing the next right thing. I'm grateful for the opportunity to have served, and I remain committed to the rule of law and our fine system.”
To connect with the author of this story or to comment, email craig.monger@1819news.com.
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