Controversy Surrounds Tucson Council Member Over Social Media Posts
Tucson City Council Member Rocque Anthony Perez, known for his prior roles and community involvement, has encountered significant backlash due to a history of concerning social media activity. Perez's posts, which include aggressive language towards political figures and promotion of adult content, have sparked a debate over the limits of personal expression in public office.
Promotion of Adult Content on OnlyFans
Among the contentious issues is Perez's use of social media to promote his personal account on OnlyFans, a platform often associated with adult content. Under the handle @localanthony, Perez shared pornographic videos and images, an action that has contributed to the scrutiny he faces today. This aspect of his social media history particularly highlights the challenges of maintaining a professional image while engaging in activities that may conflict with the expectations of public roles.
Aggressive Political Statements
In addition to his OnlyFans activities, Perez's social media history includes a number of alarming statements directed at political figures. Posts expressing a desire for harm against former President Donald Trump and other political opponents have fueled controversy. One tweet notably read, "Someone throw this b***h off the capitol building roof please," showcasing the violent nature of some remarks. Another tweet during the 2020 election cycle threatened, “Roses are red, violets are blue, vote for Joe Biden, or I’ll cut you,” which was accompanied by an image of Perez wielding scissors.
Professional Life and Public Image
Despite the controversial nature of his posts, Perez has held several professional positions in communications and marketing, including at the University of Arizona, his alma mater, and later at Arizona State University. His role in public life continued to grow as he served on the Tucson City Council, representing Ward 5. Questions about the appropriateness of his social media conduct have followed him throughout his career in public service.
Implications for Public Responsibility
The ongoing scrutiny of Perez's actions underscores the complexities at the intersection of personal freedom and public accountability. As his term on the Tucson City Council approaches its end in December, the broader implications of his social media history continue to resonate, challenging the community and officials alike to consider the balance required of those in public positions.