Two days before the Joplin City Council is scheduled to discuss Council member Ryan Jackson's comments about a transgender council candidate and his threats to release information he says he has about local TV personalities to anti-LGBTQ sites, the city's newspaper of record appears to be advocating Jackson's removal.
In an editorial in today's edition, titled "Council needs to act on comments," the Globe noted that Jackson's threats against the local television stations, particularly KSNF and KODE, which reported about his disparaging comments about candidate Ellie (Matthew) Wolsey, who was unsuccessful in the election earlier this month, appear to be illegal.
Attempts to intimidate people by releasing personal information is known as “doxing.” Missouri law bans doxing, specifically prohibiting sharing personal information — that would include cellphone numbers, addresses and emails — to cause harm or death or to cause fear of harm or death. If the threat were found to constitute harassment or stalking, Jackson could also face legal repercussions.
The editorial notes that Jackson says his comments are protected by the First Amendment.
While free speech may protect Jackson’s comment, it doesn’t relieve him of his responsibilities as an elected official. Nor does it protect him from the consequences of his remarks.
The Globe concluded its editorial by advocating for steps to be taken against Jackson.
While all legislative bodies should be hesitant to oust someone voters approved, this isn’t Jackson’s first offense and both incidents involved his comments about LGBTQ residents. Censure or even removal should be on the table.
If the Joplin City Council fails to act, city residents should pursue a recall petition.