Yes jumping the seat switch on the D/C will kill your battery. It will keep the relay activated that activates the fuel shut off solenoid thus running your battery down it time. Usually takes 72 hours or so.
I reconnected the safety switch. So far no problems. Ruined a rear tire, so the mower is not being used at this time. New tires should be here today. I believe everything is OK since reconnecting the safety switch. I did use the mower for several days with no problems. Thanks for all the replies.