Republican Party calls for Alachua County School Board member’s resignation over Hulk Hogan comment
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GAINESVILLE, Fla. (WCJB) – Republican Party officials in Alachua County are calling on school board member Sarah Rockwell to resign following controversial comments she made about Hulk Hogan’s death.
In a social media post on Monday, the Alachua County Republican Party urged citizens to demand Rockwell’s resignation for her “reprehensible” comment.
Republican Party chair Tim Marden said, “I was really surprised that she even chose to comment on it. As the day went on, it was clear that her words struck a nerve with many people. It felt like she was disrespectfully stepping on his grave, which is unacceptable under any circumstances. Additionally, it seemed politically motivated, which elevates the issue to another level of unacceptability.”
It’s the latest backlash against the school board member whose comments have made national headlines.
Rockwell shared a lengthy apology on Saturday for her “cruel and flippant comment.” She said, “I also sincerely apologize for the way my comment has eroded confidence in my ability to represent all students, families, and staff in Alachua County.”
For the Republican Party, the apology wasn’t enough, with the party posting, “While her apology may have been sincere, the scar will remain.”
Rockwell has faced strong backlash for her comments, but one resident in Gainesville has chosen to respond with understanding.
Sophia Cruz-Perez stated, “We don’t have to like each other, but I will still defend and advocate for extending grace to her and recognizing her humanity. At the end of the day, her mission on the school board and as an educator in the larger world is far more important than that single comment.”
School board seats in Florida are nonpartisan. TV20 has reached out to the local Democratic Party for a comment on this story. This article will be updated to reflect any statements we receive.
Rockwell’s full statement apologizing for her comments is posted below:
“A few days ago, I made a cruel and flippant comment from my personal Facebook account on a friend’s post regarding the death of Hulk Hogan. I deeply regret making that comment and have since removed it. I want to make it very clear that I never have and never will wish harm on anyone regardless of whether we share political views. While I strongly disagree with some of the comments Hulk Hogan made, that is no excuse for my comment.
I also sincerely apologize for the way my comment has eroded confidence in my ability to represent all students, families, and staff in Alachua County. I want to assure all of you that the best interests of our children and our public schools are at the center of everything I do as a board member. I hope I have shown that by my record of advocacy for children, families, and staff members throughout Alachua county.
Again, I apologize for the hurt and distrust I have caused with my insensitive comment. I will continue to do the hard work of putting our children and schools first. I hope that I can earn back your trust.”
Sarah Rockwell, Alachua County School Board
