Retraction re: Jeff Frederick

Retraction and Apology

I must set the record straight concerning my comments earlier this month about Chairman Jeff Frederick. I took him to task over what I called “… the Twitter incident …”. This event took place during the General Assembly session and was widely covered in the political blogs, both conservative and liberal, which lead me and probably many others, to conclude that Chairman Jeff Frederick showed poor judgment and damaged Republican chances at attaining parity in the State Senate. I wrote:

“While I agree that the “Twitter” incident was a boneheaded and costly mistake, it was hardly an impeachable offense.”

When I wrote that comment, I did not know that the Senate Democratic Leadership was already aware of the potential for a Democrat Senator crossing party lines several hours before Chairman Frederick sent his “Twitter” message. According to the Blogs, Frederick’s Twitter message is what tipped-off the Democrat leadership, spoiling the opportunity. Second, I did not know that Chairman Frederick had been asked by a member of the House leadership to spread the word about the impending event. I have not seen either of these facts report anywhere and both negate the charge that Chairman Frederick acted irresponsibly.

I talked with Chairman Frederick concerning the allegations against him. He provided an in-depth rebuttal to each charge that I find more than compelling. For a brief explanation, see: http://virginiavirtucon.wordpress.com/2009/03/17/frederick-responds-to-calls-for-ouster-details-responses-to-charges-against-him/

I am convinced that all of the charges against Chairman Frederick are false or, at best, grossly inaccurate descriptions of real events. Unfortunately, many of our Republican leaders have been led to believe the charges were far more serious, but due to required secrecy the details cold not be revealed; and that there was a broad grass roots movement calling for Frederick to resign.

With facts now becoming known, everyone can see neither is the case. The few charges that appeared significant at first turn out to have been fully explained to party officials and accepted without objection. Further observation reveals that the majority of charges could only have been made by official committee members as the grassroots would not have any knowledge to make such charges.

All of my communications and research concerning this issue, led met to conclude it would be a gross miscarriage of justice to remove Chairman Frederick based on the charges alleged.

I encourage all Republicans, on both sides of this issue, to be temperate in what they publish. Heated and personal attacks can only assist the Democrats in their fall campaigns. If we stick to the facts, all of the facts, this issue will be settled justly, as both sides will need to work together to help out Candidates win in November.