Following several days of pushback, Donald Watkins Jr. has withdrawn his name to be Montgomery’s next director for small and minority business development.
The decision comes after the Montgomery Personnel Board delayed a decision on whether to approve Watkins’ hiring at a salary well above the typical starting salary for the position. The decision to hire Watkins, who was convicted of one count of felony wire fraud and one count of conspiracy in a federal trial in 2019, had drawn criticism from several rightwing politicians and websites.
“(I)t has become clear in recent days that (Watkins’) appointment has sparked unnecessary distraction and political fearmongering – diverting attention away from the critical work ahead,” Montgomery Mayor Steven Reed said in a statement. “My responsibility as Mayor is to ensure that our shared goals for small business growth, job creation, and inclusive economic development remain our top priority. We cannot afford to have that mission overshadowed by those looking to gain political popularity at the expense of an overly qualified and dynamic business leader.”
Reed had defended the decision to hire Watkins, calling him “extremely qualified” to hold the position. That experience was why, Reed said, he offered Watkins a higher salary of $120,960. The typical starting pay for the position is just over $82,000.
Throughout the process, Reed continued to defend Watkins, whom Reed referred to as a longtime friend.
“While I have accepted Mr. Watkins’ withdrawal, I want to make clear that this decision is not a reflection on his qualifications, experience, or passion for the city of Montgomery,” Reed said in the statement. “He is an exceptionally talented professional who has demonstrated both the knowledge and the heart required to support Montgomery’s growing and essential small business community.”
From the moment Watkins’ hiring became public, the entire process was heavily politicized, and criticism poured in, primarily from the right wing, who, less than a year ago, voted a 34-time felon into the White House. Still, both Reed and Watkins determined it was best for the city if Watkins withdrew from consideration.
