‘It’s a slippery slope’: Gee sides with Washington sheriffs fighting new accountability law

A new law aimed at holding Washington sheriffs to a higher standard, Senate Bill 5974, is facing pushback from four eastern Washington sheriffs, only a few days after it was signed into law by Washington Governor Bob Ferguson.

The law ties a sheriff’s ability to remain in office to whether they can maintain their law enforcement certification. Supporters claim it closes a gap, making sure those leading the department meet the same standards as the rank and file, while sheriffs have argued the law goes too far and takes power away from voters.

Gee Scott, co-host of “The Gee and Ursula Show” on KIRO Newsradio, sided with the four sheriffs and their belief in the law taking away power from voters, noting it is a “slippery slope” if the bill stands as is.

“Who should police the police in this situation? Do you think that is too far? Don’t get it twisted. I am all for accountability for everyone, and I do think that this came about because of the sheriff of Pierce County. However, my stance on this topic right here is simple. If someone is voted into office, then the power to remove them should stay with the voters,” Gee said.

Gee argues that removing elected officials should remain with voters

Gee raised questions regarding the process for removing a sheriff, like who would be tapped to make the decision on removing a sheriff, and if they would be voted into that position or appointed.

“Even though there are certain sheriffs that I don’t think should be there anymore, I still believe that if they get voted in by the people, then the decision for them to be removed should be by the people,” Gee said. “You don’t like how they’re doing it, you organize, you talk about it, and you vote to replace them. The people should have that decision for any sheriff who was voted in.

“I’m going to tell you, it’s a slippery slope right here,” he continued. “I’m not a judge or anything like that, but you start taking away the power from the people, then it’s gonna be a tough thing. How do you pick the people who make the decision to decertify a sheriff? Is that voted on by the people, or are they picked? Gets a little messy. Again, this is a slippery slope, so I’m actually on the side of the sheriffs.”

Watch the full discussion in the video above.

Listen to Gee and Ursula on “The Gee and Ursula Show” weekday mornings from 9 am to 12 pm on KIRO Newsradio.