In a letter dated February 28, 2009, Florida Republican Party Chairman Jim Greer dealt a roundhouse blow to the political ambitions of former Florida Federation of Black Republicans head Deon Long. Mr. Long has been embroiled in a series of attempts to wrest control of the Orange County party organization from its current Chairman, Lewis Oliver..jpg)
After losing an August election for the State Committeeman job, Mr. Long challenged Oliver for the chairmanship last January. It was his second attempt, and this time he lost by only one vote. The narrow defeat fueled a series of ‘coup’ attempts by Long supporters, which include controversial radio host Doug Guetzloe and former Ron Paul activist Nicholas Egoroff.
After failing to reverse the election results in a lawsuit challenging the validity of Party oath requirements, Long’s camp called a ‘special meeting’ of the Executive Committee. Unfazed by the lack a quorum and in violation of Party rules, Long’s supporters staged a ‘do-over’ election. Long left the meeting claiming victory. But RPOF Chairman Greer immediately crushed his pretensions by informing him that the State Party recognized Mr. Oliver as Chairman and directing Long to stop representing himself as such.
Moreover, the letter referred the matter to the Party’s Grievance Committee. The State Chairman accused Long of engaging in “a pattern of disruptive and divisive actions . . . creating circumstances . . . harmful and detrimental to the Republican Party at all levels.” Aside from the allegations stemming from the County race, Mr. Long is charged with misconduct while at the head of the Black Republicans. Those allegations include writing bad checks on the organization’s account. If guilty, Mr. Long faces removal from any Party position he may hold.
Comments