Apology needed from Publix, please

Editor’s note: Due to a production error in Wednesday’s paper, we are re-running this letter in its entirety.

Let us analyze this situation.

Publix gives Adam Putnam $670,000 over a three-year period, inclusive of $100,000 less than a month ago.

Meanwhile, Putnam, the state agricultural commissioner who oversees regulations of Publix’s 800 stores, removes negative news from the department’s website eliminating a pass/fail system for seven Publix supermarket stores where Publix failed health safety standards.

Publix is not giving away $670,000 for nothing. They expect something in return, and they got it. This was a quid pro quo, a tit for tat, which in my book is a bribe, clear and simple, for future favorable performances on the behalf of Publix.

Publix can play dumb. They gave him money for his support but did not know what this person, Adam Putman was doing with their money.

But that is pure nonsense. The additional $100,000 was awarded to his gubernatorial campaign long after the removing of the negative information from the website.

Publix should apologize for their involvement in Putnam’s pay for play. Putnam should withdraw from running for governor.

We have enough of a swamp to be cleaned up in Washington without having another swamp in Tallahassee.

ROBERT LANGER, PALM BEACH GARDENS