Broward Elections Chief Orders Stop to Tamarac Fliers

Joe Scott, the Broward Supervisor of Elections, issued a cease-and-desist order on Oct. 30 to stop a political action committee from distributing campaign fliers in Tamarac.

The materials feature Scott’s name, photograph, and official title. His office stated that the fliers falsely imply he endorses specific candidates, a concern that has intensified with the Nov. 3 midterm elections approaching.

Scott said the group has distributed the propaganda throughout Broward County, with a heavy concentration in Tamarac. He noted that the committee is known for using misleading political materials.

"It has come to my attention that a political action committee is using my face, my name and my title on a piece of political propaganda that's being handed out in the community," Scott said.

Scott said his office is prepared to pursue legal action if the group does not halt distribution. He emphasized that the fliers create a false impression of support, threatening the impartiality of his role as the county's top election official.

Volunteers and candidates raised concerns at polling locations in Tamarac. One volunteer described the situation as "completely unacceptable," noting that "phony" practices occur every election cycle in South Florida. Another candidate warned that voters might mistakenly believe Scott has abandoned his neutral position.

"It's troubling because you would think, like a normal person, 'Oh, this person's authorizing or approving it,' and it gives off the impression that he's not impartial, right?" the candidate said.

A separate legal action involves Tamarac candidate Tamar Hamilton. A circuit court judge issued a cease-and-desist order after her name and photograph were used on similar fliers without authorization. Scott said he will visit polling sites in the final days before the election to ensure laws are followed as voters cast ballots.