We, the undersigned citizens of Caldwell County, hereby demand the immediate removal of Jeff Branch from his position as County Commissioner.

On Monday, July 14th, Jeff Branch engaged in a physical assault against a fellow elected official within the office of the County Commissioner. This egregious act represents a profound defilement of his office and demonstrates a clear and undeniable unfitness for public service.

While the current legal framework regarding disciplinary action for such misconduct may be ambiguous, we believe that an act of physical violence by an elected official against another, especially within the sanctity of their shared workplace, constitutes an automatic disqualification from holding public office. Such behavior erodes public trust, undermines the integrity of our local government, and sets a dangerous precedent.

We, the citizens, are left to address this grave breach of conduct and demand accountability. Jeff Branch's actions have proven him to be incapable of upholding the decorum, respect, and professionalism required of a County Commissioner. His continued presence in office is an insult to the community he is sworn to serve and compromises the safety and functionality of our governmental institutions.

Therefore, we urgently call upon the appropriate authorities and County Attorney Destin Hall, to initiate immediate proceedings for the removal of Jeff Branch from the office of County Commissioner. We believe this action is essential to restore integrity to our local government and to ensure that those who hold public office are held to the highest standards of conduct and ethical behavior.

How Other Commissioners Can Initiate Removal Through "Amotion"
 

In addition to citizen action, the remaining county commissioners may have the authority to initiate the removal process through a legal procedure known as "amotion." While specific procedures can vary based on state and local statutes, "amotion" generally refers to the expulsion of a corporate officer or member from their position. In the context of public office, it would involve the formal removal of an elected official by the body to which they belong.

For the county commissioners to pursue amotion in North Carolina, they would typically need to:

Identify Legal Grounds: Determine if the actions of Jeff Branch, specifically the physical assault, meet the legal criteria for removal as defined by North Carolina general statutes governing county commissioners or common law principles related to official misconduct. Grounds for amotion often include gross misconduct, malfeasance in office, or a breach of the public trust that renders the official unfit to serve.

Formal Charges: The commissioners would likely need to bring formal charges or a resolution outlining the specific reasons for removal, supported by evidence. DONNIE POTTER NEED TO PRESS CHARGES. 

Notice and Opportunity to be Heard: Jeff Branch would be entitled to due process, meaning he must be given proper notice of the charges against him and a fair opportunity to present his defense, typically at a public hearing.

Vote: Following the hearing, the remaining commissioners would vote on the resolution for removal. The required vote threshold (e.g., simple majority, supermajority) would be dictated by North Carolina law or local ordinances.

It is critical that the commissioners consult with the county attorney, Destin Hall, to ensure that any amotion process is conducted strictly in accordance with North Carolina law to avoid legal challenges.