On the I Love Karns Facebook page, Knox County Commissioner at Large Larsen Jay shared a post from his own personal Facebook page asking for the public’s help in creating some thank you gifts for front line health care workers. Which on its face seems alright. Until he posts his personal Venmo.

A Commissioner that makes about $30,000 a year as Commissioner and resides in an affluent neighborhood in Knoxville. As of 7/14/2020 Jay has less than $1,000 in his campaign account, which he can use for the thank you gifts. Of course, there is also a $3,500 loan outstanding to his campaign. Is this ethical? Does it violate the Knox County Code of Ethics?

Who will have access to his personal Venmo to ensure the contributions are properly accounted and distributed appropriately?