Today, I took the time to look at the sample ballot for the 2009 Election in Los Angeles.
I’m very disappointed.
C’mon, couldn’t someone with a chance or a qualification challenge Villaraigosa? I’m not that happy with the job he’s done (he seems to be more focused on advancing his career than helping the city). He certainly hasn’t done anything to bring business back to Los Angeles, or to help the San Fernando Valley. Speculation is that he’s going to running for something else come 2010. So why reelect him?
But then I look at the other candidates:
- Carlos Alvarez: the ballot says “legal assistant”, but a quick google shows he’s the candidate of the Party for Socialism and Liberation. Next.
- Gordon Turner: A deputy city attorney. The front page of his website says “This administration will focus on linking the communities through our commonalities while at the same time respecting the flavor of our differences, which make us unique.” Huh? Next.
- Walter Moore. Haven’t heard of him. Web page looks interesting. Republican, but a possibility. The City Beat article on him is interesting. But he’s not getting much publicity.
- Phil Jennerjahn: Was a precinct captain for McCain. Has some interesting ideas, but comes across as a bit too conservative, at least for me.
- James Harris. Socialist Workers Party candidate. Next.
- David Hernandez. Political activist. Seems to come across as a bit naive.
- Bruce Darian. Site is loaded with large videos. Can’t design a website, can’t get me the information I need to consider you. Federalist party, whatever that is. Next.
- “Zuma Dogg” Saltzberg: Comes across as kookie. More importantly: no clear summary of his positions. Next.
- Craig X Rubin: Pro-marijuana. Pastor, who teaches the Jewish Nature of the New Testament. His main campaign plank seems to be pot. Next.
Of the field, the only possibilities other than Mayor Tony would be Walter Moore or Phil Jennerjahn. But I don’t have a good sense of them. C’mon somebody. Convince me.