Suggestion That Hodgson Resign Is Just More Silliness [OPINION]

Members of the anti-Tom Hodgson movement known as Bristol County for Correctional Justice are demanding that Sheriff Tom step down if he wants to work on Donald Trump's re-election campaign.

Suggesting that Hodgson can't possibly handle both responsibilities at the same time, several members of the BCFCJ have written letters to the Standard-Times calling on Hodgson to resign.

Member Laurie Bullard of Westport says Hodgson "is unable to run a respectable house of correction" and "it is apparent that his ideology mirrors that f the president." Bullard proceeds to defines Hodgson's ideology as one of "racism, bigotry, hatred of immigrants."

Ah, so there it is.

Hodgson was recently appointed the honorary chair of the Trump re-election effort here in Massachusetts, a most deserving appointment as Hodgson has worked tirelessly to promote Trump's agenda of common-sense immigration policies and border security.

I could write an entire column on Bullard's quite obvious issues with Trump Derangement Syndrome and vile hatred and vulgar personal attacks, but I won't. Politics of personal destruction are more their style and not mine. I will, however, address her silly suggestion that Sheriff Hodgson should resign.

According to Bullard and the BCFCJ, Hodgon should remain isolated at the Bristol County House of Corrections, managing the day-to-day operations and implementation of programs. They believe Hodgson should not play an active role in the National Sheriff's Association, which provides valuable education, training and lobbying on behalf of law enforcement, public safety professionals, and concerned citizens nationwide.

Using the BCFCJ logic, Governor Charlie Baker should not be allowed to participate in the National Governor's Association and Jon Mitchell should withdraw from the National Mayor's Association and cancel his participation in the U.S. Conference of Mayors. Instead, they should be confined to their offices at the State House and City Hall, respectively.

As for Hodgson's role as honorary chair of the Trump re-election effort here in Massachusetts, all you have to do is scroll up and re-read Bullard's own words and you'll understand why that is an issue for the group.

Someone asked today if it isn't somehow hypocritical to criticize Sen. Elizabeth Warren for seeking the presidency while also serving in the U.S. Senate. Apples and oranges. Warren has completely neglected her paid position as one of two representatives from Massachusetts in the U.S. Senate while focusing exclusively on her White House bid. Hodgson's activities with the National Sheriff's Association and as Trump's honorary chair have not interfered with his ability to perform his duties as sheriff. In fact, his participation in the NSA has benefited Massachusetts and the nation.

Hodgson, a Republican, remains very popular in the deepest of blue counties, which is evident at the ballot box each time he seeks re-election. And Hodgson is the only elected official in Massachusets who can get Trump's ear. The fact that Bullard and her BCFCJ associates don't like Trump or Hodgson is their opinion and they are certainly welcome to it.

Barry Richard is the host of The Barry Richard Show on 1420 WBSM New Bedford. He can be heard weekdays from noon to 3 p.m. Contact him at barry@wbsm.com and follow him on Twitter @BarryJRichard58. The opinions expressed in this commentary are solely those of the author.