A federal lawsuit stemming from a virtual public meeting in Northern Michigan has settled for $100,000 after a county commissioner displayed a rifle during a discussion on gun violence. In January 2021, while Patricia MacIntosh spoke about the dangers of gun violence and the Capitol riot, Grand Traverse County Commissioner Ron Clous left his camera frame and returned holding a rifle, which MacIntosh described as an intimidation tactic against her free speech.
The county has agreed to pay the settlement, covered by insurance, while Clous has issued an apology. He acknowledged that his actions might have caused discomfort for MacIntosh, stating, “While not my intent, I understand that my actions… could reasonably have caused you to feel uncomfortable.” MacIntosh expressed that she would have likely avoided legal action had Clous apologized sooner, highlighting the ongoing discussions around responsible gun ownership and public safety in political discourse.
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