Las Vegas City Council, Ward 2 Candidate Attempts to Mislead the Voters with his Campaign Materials

Don’t we have enough corruption in this city?

Las Vegas City Council – Ward 2 candidate, Steve Seroka, a retired Air Force Colonel, has prepared campaign literature which violates multiple military regulations, including Department of Defense Regulation, 1334-01 (Wearing of a Uniform).

Don't we have enough corruption in this city?
Las Vegas City Council, Ward 2 Candidate Attempts to Mislead the Voters with his Campaign Materials

 

Specifically, § 3.1 [the wearing of a uniform by members of the Armed Forces (including retired members)] and § 3.1.2 [During or in connection with furthering political activities, private employment, or commercial interests, when an inference of official sponsorship for the activity or interest may be drawn.]

In all of his campaign materials. Steve Seroka, uses as his title: “Colonel Steve Seroka”, rather than  the title “Colonel Steve Seroka, (Ret.)” as required by the Joint Ethics Regulations (JER)  paragraph 2-304, (Use of Rank: “Use of Military Title by Retirees or Reserves: Retired Military members and members of the Reserve Components not on active duty). 

This regulation provides that these service members may use military titles in connection with commercial enterprises provided they clearly indicate their Retired or Inactive Reserve Status.

Similarly, the wearing of a uniform is subject to regulation. With respect to members of the Air Force, Air Force Instruction (AFI) 36-2903, issued by the Secretary of the Air Force implements Regulation 1334-01.  Chapter 1, § 1.4.6 provides that the wearing of an Air Force uniform is not permitted when “furthering political activities, private employment or commercial interest.”

In Seroka’s campaign materials, he includes photos of himself in uniform, without any disclaimer.  He shown is in a recognizable flight suit jacket, worn by fighter pilots, as well as, wearing his fighter pilot parachute.

These photographs appear to violate the directive against images of political candidates “in uniform as a primary graphics representation” in campaign materials.

The Pentagon advises service members that they should never design a flier, brochure, or commercial that in any way is intended to trick voters into thinking you’re still an active member of the United States Military. 

Guidance that, unfortunately, now chooses to ignore in his quest for a political advantage.

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