TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WTXL) — Keith Powell has withdrew his name from consideration as the next Ethics Officer for the Tallahassee Independent Ethics Board.
His decision follows revelations of past social media postings that some in the community found inappropriate.
Powell had been unanimously selected by the Board for the position and was set to start his new position on February 3.
Powell says his comments were not made with malice but rather reflect his conservative views on various social and political issues.
“I am sorry if my past comments offended members of this community. This was never my intent,” said Powell. “I am a deeply religious man who wears my faith on my sleeve. For better or for worse, that is just who I am.” Powell continued, “For 32 years, I have had the honor to serve as an investigator with the Florida Commission on Ethics, and I have always done so with impartiality and professionalism. In this role, I have never been concerned with issues related to right versus left, but merely those involving right versus wrong.”
“I thank Mr. Powell for his consideration and for taking the time to interview with our Board,” said Bryan F. Smith, Chairman of the Tallahassee Independent Ethics Board. “Mr. Powell has exceptional credentials and qualifications, and I know he will succeed wherever he goes. I wish him the best.”
The Tallahassee Independent Ethics Board will meet on Thursday at 4:30 p.m. in the Florida Room to discuss the position of Independent Ethics Officer.
