Local sheriff on his post about Harris supporters: ‘A little misinterpreted?’

PORTAGE COUNTY, Ohio (WJW) – A local sheriff whose recent social media post sparked controversy online spoke out Tuesday, saying the comments were “a little misinterpreted.”

Portage County Sheriff Bruce Zuchowski made the original post on his personal campaign Facebook page over the weekend, appearing to call out residents who support presidential candidate Kamala Harris.

“When people ask me what will happen if the flip-flopping, laughing hyena wins, I say, write down all the addresses of people who had her signs in their yards,” the post said. “So, when the illegal human locusts need places to live, we’ll already have the addresses of their new families who supported their arrival.”

Since then, the post has received more than 3,700 reactions and more than 1,100 shares on Facebook.

Zuchowski posted an update Tuesday afternoon, saying, “As the Chief Law Enforcement Officer of Portage County, I have sworn to protect ALL citizens of my County. Recently, I placed a post on my personal facebook page that may have been a little misinterpreted?”

“I…as the elected sheriff, do have a first amendment right as do all citizens,” he continued. “If the citizens of Portage County want to elect an individual who has supported open borders (which I’ve personally visited Twice!) and neglected to enforce the laws of our Country…then that is their prerogative. With elections, there are consequences. That being said…I believe that those who vote for individuals with liberal policies have to accept responsibility for their actions! I am a Law Man…Not a Politician!”

Zuchowski went on thank community members who have supported him since making the status.

FOX 8 has previously reached out to the sheriff’s office for comment but didn’t hear back.

The ACLU of Ohio, calling the comments “despicable,” said on Facebook they sent the sheriff’s office a letter, calling on Zuchowski to take down the original post.

“As a government official, his threats against residents are unconstitutional. Displaying political yard signs is protected First Amendment activity,” The ACLU of Ohio said.

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