In 2008, prior to being governor, John Kasich was pulled over by a Columbus police officer on Rt. 315.
Last month he told the story while addressing EPA employees. His comments regarding the officer involved have now gone viral on YouTube and have him facing criticism.
"I had this idiot pull me over on 315," said Kasich.
Court records show Kasich was pulled over for not moving over for a stopped emergency vehicle with its lights flashing. Kasich said he didn't see it.
"He says, 'Well, I understand, give me your license ... goes back to the car, comes back, gives me a ticket. He says, 'You must report to court. If you don't report to court, we're putting a warrant out for your arrest. He's an idiot, " said Kasich.
Local FOP Lodge 1 President Jim Marquis said the comments are not being taken well by officers.
"Everyone one of us goes to work every day and you don't know if you're coming home or not. It was clearly poor judgment on his part, " said Marquis.
A spokesman for Gov. Kasich released this statement:
"The governor, of course, respects the important work of law enforcement officers and regrets his poor choice of words in describing his frustration in receiving a ticket."
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