A Cyberbully wants to be our Mayor

Commentary

City Commissioner Darron Ayscue wants to be Fernandina Beach's next mayor. But his suitability for mayor is questionable when considering these exchanges with citizens on social media.

"You're a liar."

"You're an idiot."

"You're stupid."

Not only has Ayscue declared war on those who have a contrary opinion, he revels in his attacks declaring in a recent email "I certainly have no issues in admitting that I continue to fan the flames."

Ayscue's inflammatory posts fly in the face of norms regarding how a mayor conducts himself/herself.

Instead of flame-thrower social media posts, shouldn't the core values of a mayoral candidate lie in their ability to be diplomatic and inspire trust and confidence among constituents? Shouldn't Fernandina residents feel that their mayor is approachable and committed to their well-being?

Here are some other of Ayscue's harshest posts:

"How unintelligent are you?"

"Does your side strive to be hypocrites, or does it come naturally?"

"They all say you're a fraud."

"(unnamed) could use a civics class. If she ever taught that subject, I feel sorry for her students."

"Blatant lying."

"...so ignorant that it borders laughable."

Not exactly professional or measured.

The attributes of a mayor include the ability to be able to listen to diverse opinions, foster inclusivity, and build bridges — not torch them. Ayscue’s personal assaults isolate and alienate rather than unify, raising the question: how can a commissioner who continually demeans constituents online be expected to represent their interests fairly and compassionately?

Ayscue has offered this explanation of his demeaning postings on Facebook.

"I'm not going to be rolled over to gain someone's support. You have seen me say it many times, you get what you get with me," he wrote.

He boasted in another post "I have recently been proclaimed the Trump of Fernandina, I feel I need to live up to those expectations."

Ayscue's cyberbullying is not simply a personal failing; it reveals a broader disregard for ethical leadership. When Ayscue, who is already in a position of power, engages in such browbeating activities, it results in a dangerous precedent for future conduct. Consider what kind of message Ayscue's abuse sends to our youth and to the community at large about acceptable behavior in leadership.

Voters need to know what kind of mayor Fernandina will have if Ayscue is elected.

He will not be a mayor with the ability to engage in constructive dialogue. Effective mayors are called upon to build coalitions and work with diverse groups. A cyberbully insulting others makes it near impossible to foster cooperation and partnerships. Ayscue as mayor will undermine the spirit of our community that is essential for Fernandina Beach.

Yet, Ayscue maintains he has the moral high ground.

"I am principled in my values but very much respect others. I mean no ill will towards anyone," Ayscue said on Facebook.

In another post Ayscue said "people get what they give in terms of respect from me."

Why would any constituents who feel attacked and disrespected support Ayscue, who embodies such divisive behavior? Fernandina's next mayor should personify respect, empathy, and an even-handed interaction with the community.

As we approach the Nov. 5 election, it's important our city is led by someone who uplifts, rather than belittles, its residents.