With just a simple blink of an eye something new happens with Mayor Jasiel Correia.

Not long ago he stated that he had full confidence in election department staff and that he would not resort to challenge signatures collected by residents of Fall River. But for reasons that were never adequately clarified he did precisely the opposite. Considering there are more than 2,000 signatures than necessary, it seems a desperate act on his part. It is almost impossible that so many residents has falsified signatures as he stubbornly asserts.

Later he said that the decision on whether he should remain mayor should be left to the residents.

Seriously? Thousands of signatures collected in a very short time by voters were not enough to convince him that his stay has already been exceeded?

The mayor then decided to engage in an online a fight against Herald News reporter Jo Goode, stating that her reports are “Fake News.”

Correia also sent his lawyer to the Dec. 18 City Council meeting to deliver a letter to councilors informing them of his intention to object to the 4,500 signatures calling for his removal.

The position taken by the mayor shows a total lack of respect for the democratic process. His stubbornness in not resigning is only a desperate act, because without that work, which pays very well, his financial situation will be totally destroyed, and without money you cannot live much less pay lawyers to defend you against the many accusations made by the FBI or challenge the 4,500 signatures.

The mayor is in a very distressed and desperate situation. The lowest blows will be applied in the next election campaign, and the more than $70,000 that he has in his vault for election expenses will be fully applied to discredit anyone who dares to run against him in the next election.

What’s next for our mayor? He may be lucky if voters don’t get good candidates in this election.

Antonio Teixeira

Fall River