The argument is valid. The claims made by Sumida may be her downfall in the future. Her actions, like aiea7 has stated, speak louder than words. Yes, the hearings are public, Yes it isn't against the law to attend those public hearings. But, will attending those public hearings come back at you as a personal attack on your credibility? Yes. Why? Because you were SEEN there. Keep in mind, if your agenda is to clean up HPD, then do so without ANY kind of bias, that may be seen or heard. It doesn't mean you are guilty of doing so. But, don't leave the door open, even for a minute. Think of the long haul, is what I am saying. Sumida incriminated his self also, by not addressing the other 2 commisioners who also attended the public hearings. By focusing on Sheehan's behavior and ignoring Levinson and Sword's, he shows his clients intentional character assassination of Sheehan.