Rick Scott Thinks It's "Inappropriate" for Journalists to Do Their Jobs

Gov. Rick Scott, whose administration has continually drawn the ire of journalists for its culture of secrecy and unwillingness to process public records, said it's "inappropriate" for reporters to report.

During a 60-minute question-and-answer session at the capital Monday morning, some 25 journos had an opportunity to chat with the typically elusive Scott.

At the time, the Tea Party darling said it was "inappropriate" for New Times to contact a black-sheep sibling whose personal struggles raise questions about Scott's policymaking motivations.

Keep New Times Free

Support Us

I Support

Local
Community
Journalism

Support the independent voice of South Florida and help keep the future of New Times free.

Support Us

"But it's the world we live in," he told reporters.

That sibling, 54-year-old Roger Scott, lives in Dallas.

He has bipolar disorder, receives government benefits, and may have a history of criminal activity and drug abuse.

Gov. Scott, his big brother, signed into law May 31 a bill that requires welfare recipients to get drug tested.

Scott repeatedly refused to tell New Times whether his brother's struggles have affected his policymaking.

Scott also would not say directly whether he would drug-test his own brother.

Instead of answering these questions, his office released a noncommittal statement:

"The governor believes that everyone who applies for welfare benefits should be drug tested."

Follow The Pulp on Facebook and on Twitter: @ThePulpBPB.