Cannaday Questions Barresi Website Links

Rep. Ed Cannaday: He
wants an Ethics Commission
ruling on website link

Rep. Ed Cannaday expressed concern today over what he said is the "potential misuse" of state resources by Republican Schools Superintendent Janet Barresi.

Cannaday, a Democrat, says he will request an opinion from the Ethics Commission for clarity.

He cited Ethics Commission Rule 257:10-1-3 as the section requiring interpretation as to the appropriate use of public funds, property, time, and personnel to influence elections.

Cannaday said that a few days ago he became aware of major changes to the online website for the State Department of Education. He noted that the new superintendent, Barresi, has made modifications wherein her picture is front and center along with a notice to follow her on websites such as Facebook, Twitter, Flickr, Vimeo, Youtube, TeacherTube and Radio. Barresi’s Facebook page links to her personal website, which solicits political contributions.

“My concern is that government property and resources are being used, directly and indirectly, for issues other than official government business,” said Cannaday. “I am not saying that the Superintendant does not have a right to have a website requesting political contributions; what I am saying is that I don’t think it’s an appropriate use of our public Department of Education’s website for her private political gain.”

Cannaday said he will submit an official request to the Ethics Commission for an interpretation of the Rule in the coming week.

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