October 8, 2009
The Case for Mike McGinn: Part 1
He's the Change We Need (in the Mayor's Office)
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MCGINN PORTRAIT BY GARRETT MORLAN The first in a series by Seattle artists.
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COST PER VOTE IN THE PRIMARY
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POLLING BY AGE
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FACEBOOK SUPPORTERS
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TOTAL CASH RAISED
A bullying, headstrong executive is on his way out. He departs with his approval ratings down around his ankles, with his political capital all used up on a controversial project that we'll be paying for long after he's gone, and with the economy in the tank. Everywhere, voters are clamoring for change.
Sound familiar? It continues. As the election cycle kicks off, an unlikely candidate emerges to replace the departing executive. This candidate doesn't look like your typical politician. He's less polished than the others in the field, more willing to take risks, more... authentic. He has a community-organizing background, a couple of successful populist crusades under his belt, and a humble, transparent style. He talks of running an "egoless campaign." Younger voters get him immediately. Eventually, people of all demographics begin to see a man who possesses an unusual, powerful quality.
Stranger Personals
It's a quality that has nothing to do with well-defined policy positions—though he does have those—and everything to do with gooey matters like disposition, idealism, and hope. This new candidate, it turns out, is the right kind of mirror. He reflects back to the people an image of what's best about the place they love (and also what's worst, weirdest, and worth protecting). He is them.
On the stump, this candidate insists that we can do what others say is too hard, too impractical. He is audacious: Alone among the candidates, he repudiates the central, controversial project of the man he now wants to replace—pledges to end the project, reverse it, erase its stain. He does this despite many respected political elders intoning that it's too late, the die is cast, this project cannot be undone. With his gutsy denunciation, this candidate gives voice to a latent civic anger, becomes a vehicle for its venting.
It is, of course, an old story. It is the story of Barack Obama, sure. But he's only the most recent and well-known iteration of an ancient narrative—the story of the heroic savior. In Seattle, in the race for mayor, it has become the story of Mike McGinn: A surprising leader steps onto the scene and finds that he is perfectly matched for a defining time.
On primary night, in a close race where he was considered vastly outmatched by the other candidates—the two front- runners had been running television ads for weeks, whereas McGinn hadn't run a single one—McGinn won. Joe Mallahan, the T-Mobile executive with personal wealth and lots of wealthy contributors, came in second. Greg Nickels, the incumbent, who'd been in contests like this many times before, came in third. Which means he's now out of the picture.
That makes the race for mayor a contest without an incumbent, a face-off between two untested men, a choice that is, either way, a gamble.
But it's also a choice between stark stylistic differences. Mallahan's main political accomplishment thus far has been to figure out how much it costs to buy one's way into a Seattle mayoral race. (Over $230,000 of his own money and counting.) He wears suits, employs tested political hands, brags about having the support of the city's "insiders." Then there's McGinn, who is no neophyte—he's been a lawyer, a neighborhood activist, and president of the local Sierra Club—but has shrewdly embraced the chance to run as an outsider, as the leader of an insurgent campaign. He says "grassroots" whenever possible. He refuses to have an official spokesperson (he does the speaking or simply allows the conduct of the campaign to speak for itself). And as he bikes around town in shirt and jeans, he smiles through an only somewhat trimmed, I-don't-give-a-fuck, logger-chic beard.
McGinn is the happy warrior, and the data shows him closing in. A September 30 poll by SurveyUSA had McGinn and Mallahan tied, with McGinn up two points from a poll conducted a couple weeks previous. Most important, the September 30 poll showed McGinn grabbing younger voters, middle-aged voters, and female voters from Mallahan. Quite a coup for the candidate who spent only $2.03 per vote in the primary (Mallahan spent $12.28 per vote), and an obvious sign of momentum. McGinn has almost five times as many Facebook supporters as Mallahan and more than three times as many Twitter followers—despite the fact that Mallahan has raised nearly four times as much money as McGinn (almost half of it, of course, from Mallahan's own checking account).
Many political observers have complained that this is a choice between two men with far more hubris than experience. True, in the sense that neither has held a serious elected office before. But in this, the 2008 presidential campaign is again instructive. Back then, a major concern about both Obama and John McCain was that neither man had ever run anything larger or more complicated than his own campaign for president. As a result, the execution of each man's run for office became the most important data point that voters had to assess how he might govern. The style became the substance.
McGinn is, quite simply, running the better campaign. He plays offense almost every day (last month, when Mallahan was quietly preparing to announce a new addition to his advisory team, McGinn scooped Mallahan by making his announcement for him). He offers idea after new idea (a plan for a new light-rail line along the west side of Seattle, a plan for dealing with gang violence, a plan for fixing the crumbling South Park bridge). He has a core conviction—that digging a new tunnel through downtown Seattle is a costly mistake that doesn't fit with the character or future of this city—and even as events seem to be making it harder and harder for him to turn his conviction into action (the city council is expected to sign an agreement later this month with the state on funding for the tunnel), his willingness to stand up and call it a mistake is energizing to a significant portion of his base.
Mallahan, by contrast, is running a cookie-cutter campaign designed not to ruffle or offend. He's selling himself as more of the same at a time when Seattle wants change.
As an idea, as a promise, and as a person, he's simply wrong for this civic moment. Picture both candidates in your mind and ask this simple question: Which of these guys feels like the mayor of the Seattle I want to live in?
The answer is obvious. 
2
First comment? :-O
I thought this was a well-written case. I'm sure we'll both be torn to shreds shortly, but I do like that McGinn has put out ideas - and whether all of them get executed or not - is not the point. Issues are being addressed - things like a bridge (South Park Bridge) that will be closed if not replaced soon. Things like poor broadband Internet service handicapping or stifling businesses (Broadstripe/Qwest in the south end) vs. nearby success stories like Tacoma.
I'm energized and hope that the electorate wakes up and "votes McGinn."
I thought this was a well-written case. I'm sure we'll both be torn to shreds shortly, but I do like that McGinn has put out ideas - and whether all of them get executed or not - is not the point. Issues are being addressed - things like a bridge (South Park Bridge) that will be closed if not replaced soon. Things like poor broadband Internet service handicapping or stifling businesses (Broadstripe/Qwest in the south end) vs. nearby success stories like Tacoma.
I'm energized and hope that the electorate wakes up and "votes McGinn."
3
I was for McGinn until I saw the Green Infrastructure agenda at his Seattle Great City Initiative. I've launched a write-in campaign for Lance Miller.
Official website: http://lance-miller-seattle-mayor.blogsp…
Official website: http://lance-miller-seattle-mayor.blogsp…
4
I see a connection between Mallahan's voting record and his success in raising campaign money.
The voting record says: "I don't care what position I take; I'll just sell out to the highest bidder." The fundraising record says: "We heard you, now do this for us."
Thank god McGinn is not for sale.
The voting record says: "I don't care what position I take; I'll just sell out to the highest bidder." The fundraising record says: "We heard you, now do this for us."
Thank god McGinn is not for sale.
5
I was for McGinn until I saw the Green Infrastructure agenda at Seattle Great City website. I've since launched my own write-in campaign at http://lance-miller-seattle-mayor.blogsp…
6
I looked at Lance's website. He lost me at:
"Loves the Fred Meyer in Ballard. "
I hope you're running a write-in campaign as some kind of hipster joke.
McGinn's got my vote, and I'd be happy to join the ranks of his fun-loving, energetic volunteer staff.
I figure if I put in a few hours week to week I'll have done more campaigning than Mallahan, who seems to let his high-paid staff do all the work (and thinking).
"Loves the Fred Meyer in Ballard. "
I hope you're running a write-in campaign as some kind of hipster joke.
McGinn's got my vote, and I'd be happy to join the ranks of his fun-loving, energetic volunteer staff.
I figure if I put in a few hours week to week I'll have done more campaigning than Mallahan, who seems to let his high-paid staff do all the work (and thinking).
7
@6 - We'd love to have you.
tinyurl.com/mcginnphonebank
tinyurl.com/mcginnlitdrops
tinyurl.com/mcginnevents
tinyurl.com/mcginnphonebank
tinyurl.com/mcginnlitdrops
tinyurl.com/mcginnevents
8
@6 - Probably should have thrown out our email and phone number as well. Anybody that's interested in helping to elect Mike, you can call the office at 206-501-4298, or email our volunteer coordinator at volunteer@mcginnformayor.com.
We're going to win this race, and we're going to do it through the power of volunteers talking to voters. It doesn't get any more grassroots than that.
We're going to win this race, and we're going to do it through the power of volunteers talking to voters. It doesn't get any more grassroots than that.
9
The Stranger endorsed McCheese eight years ago, and now it is endorsing McGoo.
Sorry, but I lost confidence with your political analysis. Good for entertainment, though.
Sorry, but I lost confidence with your political analysis. Good for entertainment, though.
12
I've gone from McGinn to Mallahan and to McGinn again, now that I gave him another chance, saw him adopt ideas my friend sent to him about nightlife and now that he's getting a lot more specific on HOW he'll get to where he wants the city to be.
And this town hall stuff is awesome --- nearly 20 town halls and events.
I think McGinn should do a lot more town halls just as he has been, particularly in areas where people feel disenfranchised. And he should bring Mike O'Brien with him --- O'Brien is critical to moving McGinn's ideas forward.
I like Joe Mallahan and I have met him, but I do feel like he's out of his league --- a good person, but not really ready for prime time and not as schooled on the issues as McGinn is. Aside from getting cell phones to poor people (which is nice), I don't see a single project identified by Mallahan that proves his big business experience is translatable to running a city as complex as Seattle, particularly in this period of time.
And this town hall stuff is awesome --- nearly 20 town halls and events.
I think McGinn should do a lot more town halls just as he has been, particularly in areas where people feel disenfranchised. And he should bring Mike O'Brien with him --- O'Brien is critical to moving McGinn's ideas forward.
I like Joe Mallahan and I have met him, but I do feel like he's out of his league --- a good person, but not really ready for prime time and not as schooled on the issues as McGinn is. Aside from getting cell phones to poor people (which is nice), I don't see a single project identified by Mallahan that proves his big business experience is translatable to running a city as complex as Seattle, particularly in this period of time.
13
...I also think, like it or not, McGinn might want to wedge in on Mallahan's turf. Try to get a second chance and see if he can score up more votes. Because in a week or two, Mallahan's money will blanket the TV with a shitload of TV ads --- so people will vote for him because they know his name.
And sorry to piss on the Stranger's page, but McGinn really, really needs to get the endorsement of the Seattle Times. Remember, the Times is our city's lone daily metro of its size and scope. An ednorsement from them is pretty big for McGinn, particularly since they endorsed Nickels and Mallahan in the primary without really anything to back it up.
We can't vote for a guy who hasn't voted 13 out of 25 times and who hasn't done a single thing for the city at all in any civic or publically engaged way. He's a good person -- I've met him -- and he cares about the issues. McGinn, however, has walked the walk.
And sorry to piss on the Stranger's page, but McGinn really, really needs to get the endorsement of the Seattle Times. Remember, the Times is our city's lone daily metro of its size and scope. An ednorsement from them is pretty big for McGinn, particularly since they endorsed Nickels and Mallahan in the primary without really anything to back it up.
We can't vote for a guy who hasn't voted 13 out of 25 times and who hasn't done a single thing for the city at all in any civic or publically engaged way. He's a good person -- I've met him -- and he cares about the issues. McGinn, however, has walked the walk.
14
@9 FTW!
"The first in a four part series" lol really?
Ohh you mean the first in a consecutive four part series...
Otherwise you'd have to honestly amend your statement to "The 38th in a 100 part marathon"
Was there ever any doubt all of you have your noses so far up McGinn's ass you could never even endeavour to be objective?
*political hacks* *Cough*
You've really never given Mallahan a fair chance in this rag. You've never done more than one story that I can remember in your attempts at presenting the other campaign. You've consistently twisted and massaged the story and/or message to be pro-McGinn at every opportunity. Frankly half of your logic is not so much "Pro McGinn" as it is "Anti Mallahan". You perceive something that just doesn't strike you right, your are jealous/envious/hateful at his chosen career(s) to this point, and instead of looking at his platform (which is almost identical to McGinn's), you choose to find subtleties about him in other ways to mock him (see "the soft hands" bullshit)
You guys really are hacks in sooooo many ways.
rinse. repeat. recycle.
"The first in a four part series" lol really?
Ohh you mean the first in a consecutive four part series...
Otherwise you'd have to honestly amend your statement to "The 38th in a 100 part marathon"
Was there ever any doubt all of you have your noses so far up McGinn's ass you could never even endeavour to be objective?
*political hacks* *Cough*
You've really never given Mallahan a fair chance in this rag. You've never done more than one story that I can remember in your attempts at presenting the other campaign. You've consistently twisted and massaged the story and/or message to be pro-McGinn at every opportunity. Frankly half of your logic is not so much "Pro McGinn" as it is "Anti Mallahan". You perceive something that just doesn't strike you right, your are jealous/envious/hateful at his chosen career(s) to this point, and instead of looking at his platform (which is almost identical to McGinn's), you choose to find subtleties about him in other ways to mock him (see "the soft hands" bullshit)
You guys really are hacks in sooooo many ways.
rinse. repeat. recycle.
15
this is nothing but lipstick on a pig....
Mallahan and McGinn are both disgraces. Both are unqualified and arrogant. A civic train wreck is happening and the Stranger will have to share in the blame for the train wreck that is coming.
I am writing in Nickels.
Mallahan and McGinn are both disgraces. Both are unqualified and arrogant. A civic train wreck is happening and the Stranger will have to share in the blame for the train wreck that is coming.
I am writing in Nickels.
16
@14: "BAWWWWWWWWW WHY WON'T THE MEAN PAPER LISTEN TO MEEEEEEEEEEEEEE, BAWWWWWWWWWWWW. YOU'RE ALL DUMMIES!! I HATE YOU!"
19
@14:
RealityCheck: I used to harbor your opinions. But ask yourself this. What has MALLAHAN done?
Seriously, other than having a job as a VP at T-Mobile, what the fuck else has he ever done for the city? Can any of us name a single THING he's done on any civic level? He has missed more than half of all elections in less than eight years. What does that tell you?
I get your frustration --- the Stranger was well behind Nickels in 2001 and 2005, when they praised his ball-breaking mentality they now decry. But I spent time looking at Mallahan's ideas -- I liked a lot of them, but he's resorting to cliched talking points. And he hasn't done anything since he moved back to Seattle from Chicago in 2000.
RealityCheck: I used to harbor your opinions. But ask yourself this. What has MALLAHAN done?
Seriously, other than having a job as a VP at T-Mobile, what the fuck else has he ever done for the city? Can any of us name a single THING he's done on any civic level? He has missed more than half of all elections in less than eight years. What does that tell you?
I get your frustration --- the Stranger was well behind Nickels in 2001 and 2005, when they praised his ball-breaking mentality they now decry. But I spent time looking at Mallahan's ideas -- I liked a lot of them, but he's resorting to cliched talking points. And he hasn't done anything since he moved back to Seattle from Chicago in 2000.
20
@ 18 (paulwashere)
I am not alone. I would wager that there will be at least 5,000 write in votes and blank votes in the Mayor's race.
Everyone and I mean everyone in this City knows that M&M don't deserve their votes. They are accidents who may be recalled in less than two years.
I am not alone. I would wager that there will be at least 5,000 write in votes and blank votes in the Mayor's race.
Everyone and I mean everyone in this City knows that M&M don't deserve their votes. They are accidents who may be recalled in less than two years.
21
@19 I'd counter by asking what McGinn has done career wise that blows Mallahan out of the water?
The answer is nothing. This election isn't so much about either candidate, as much as it is about getting Nickels the fuck out.
Hence my earlier comments about being anti-Mallahan, moreso than pro McGinn. There really isn't any difference between them except personal petty nuances. Given that Mallahan is much comfortable running large departments, the edge goes to him.
The answer is nothing. This election isn't so much about either candidate, as much as it is about getting Nickels the fuck out.
Hence my earlier comments about being anti-Mallahan, moreso than pro McGinn. There really isn't any difference between them except personal petty nuances. Given that Mallahan is much comfortable running large departments, the edge goes to him.
22
@16 The hospital staff are looking for you. You forgot to take your meds again.
Sad to hear about your head injury... we really thought the lobotomy would help you, but unfortunately it appears it didn't help.
Sorry
Sad to hear about your head injury... we really thought the lobotomy would help you, but unfortunately it appears it didn't help.
Sorry
23
@ West Seattle Waiter -- you don't get my point, in Seattle is basically illegal to run in the primary and lose and run a write-in campaign. That's why Nickels isn't doing it because he can't legally. I'm not saying it to be a dick, though I won't miss Nickels; I'm saying it because it's the facts. Look it up or better yet, email Ed Murray and beg him.
@ 21 (RealityCheck) --- I hear you on getting Nickels the fuck out, which frankly I will not miss.
But in terms of what McGinn has done. Well, for starters, he fought against Nickels and overwhelming opposition on parks levies and other issues and won at the ballot box --- even when 57% of the vote was against his idea originally. He's shown that activism doesn't have to be a slogan but can be practical on basic things like parks and getting sidewalks in Greenwood, which was a big problem for a long time. Those are the "basic city services" Mallahan says he can put into motion but hasn't. McGinn has been doing this successfully for 20 years --- look at his record yourself.
I agree with you on the larger point that he and McGinn disagree on minor stuff, with the tunnel being the biggest issue they disagree on --- which, after all, is a STATE highway, so the mayor may not impact it at all. But the state is forcing the CITY to pay the cost overruns and nearly a billion out of OUR and not THEIR pockets --- so it's a state project that we pay for with no help even though it's a state issue.
I've answered your question, now answer mine: besides volunteering for Obama in Chicago, Joe Mallahan has not done anything IN Seattle. I like Joe and he does have good achievements under his belt and he's good on the issues. But it's obvious he doesn't seem that informed on Seattle issues, has missed most of the elections in the past 8 years and hasn't done really any volunteer or civic work that translates into leaderhsip on behalf of the people for the city.
More...
@ 21 (RealityCheck) --- I hear you on getting Nickels the fuck out, which frankly I will not miss.
But in terms of what McGinn has done. Well, for starters, he fought against Nickels and overwhelming opposition on parks levies and other issues and won at the ballot box --- even when 57% of the vote was against his idea originally. He's shown that activism doesn't have to be a slogan but can be practical on basic things like parks and getting sidewalks in Greenwood, which was a big problem for a long time. Those are the "basic city services" Mallahan says he can put into motion but hasn't. McGinn has been doing this successfully for 20 years --- look at his record yourself.
I agree with you on the larger point that he and McGinn disagree on minor stuff, with the tunnel being the biggest issue they disagree on --- which, after all, is a STATE highway, so the mayor may not impact it at all. But the state is forcing the CITY to pay the cost overruns and nearly a billion out of OUR and not THEIR pockets --- so it's a state project that we pay for with no help even though it's a state issue.
I've answered your question, now answer mine: besides volunteering for Obama in Chicago, Joe Mallahan has not done anything IN Seattle. I like Joe and he does have good achievements under his belt and he's good on the issues. But it's obvious he doesn't seem that informed on Seattle issues, has missed most of the elections in the past 8 years and hasn't done really any volunteer or civic work that translates into leaderhsip on behalf of the people for the city.
24
@22: Reality Wreck, mon cher: Among your flip-flops, gaffes and stupidity, you reveal that there is indeed a pearl within the oyster-ugly of your "intellect": the comedy that can be found in reading your comments.
Bravo!
Bravo!
25
@16: You can suck up to the Stranger staff all you want and serve as their designated attack dog; they still think you're an idiot.
26
I'm with @12 & 13. After sitting in on another mayoral debate this week, my gut tells me to vote for McGinn (the same feeling Eli writes about), even though my head says Mallahan might make more sense because he's not going to be distracted by fighting the Tunnel.
Mallahan definitely seems like a good guy, but dammit man, start educating yourself a bit better about governing and answer questions from your heart, and not from a script if you want to convince me.
And Mike, you had me at "Hello", but then I got concerned that you're too far out there on this whole anti-car kick you seem to have. There are a LOT of people for whom driving a car is a necessity of job and life, and you come across as threatening to them. You better find a way to win them over because you're not going to win the election on the strength of the biker vote.
Step it up, gentlemen.
Mallahan definitely seems like a good guy, but dammit man, start educating yourself a bit better about governing and answer questions from your heart, and not from a script if you want to convince me.
And Mike, you had me at "Hello", but then I got concerned that you're too far out there on this whole anti-car kick you seem to have. There are a LOT of people for whom driving a car is a necessity of job and life, and you come across as threatening to them. You better find a way to win them over because you're not going to win the election on the strength of the biker vote.
Step it up, gentlemen.
27
"Reverse its stain?" Oh please, Dominic...you might find it hard to believe, but the majority of people in this town support the tunnel (point of fact - the tunnel would go UNDER first avenue, not THROUGH downtown). And the fact that McGinn can't deal with that reality doesn't show anything except that he is someone who is stubborn, out of touch and won't compromise. But thanks for clarifying the issue for me, now I'm sure which candidate "feels" like the mayor I want for Seattle.
29
@25: No they don't, silly. In fact, a couple of them have probed me in person for why I seem to know so many random and oftentimes useless (in my everyday life) facts and figures.
As to your point about me "sticking up for them", you're really being far too generous-- manipulating people like you is far easier than you realize. And besides, a couple of staffers can tell you that I've been more than critical of their opinions.
But do go on about me! I insist. I really love it when people direct comments at me for the sake of basking in my Baconly glow.
As to your point about me "sticking up for them", you're really being far too generous-- manipulating people like you is far easier than you realize. And besides, a couple of staffers can tell you that I've been more than critical of their opinions.
But do go on about me! I insist. I really love it when people direct comments at me for the sake of basking in my Baconly glow.
30
You and me both, Baconcat.
It means you're getting to them.
I've got em hopping mad on the PI and Times blogs ...
It means you're getting to them.
I've got em hopping mad on the PI and Times blogs ...
31
@21--Mallahan is used to managing large departments? Last I heard, his "large department" consisted of 20-30 employees. And there's a pretty big difference between the two candidates, particularly when you consider Mallahan's willingness to adopt talking points from anyone who will support him.
32
Lance Miller, I think you're a little confused by the concept of Green Infrastructure. You seem to think that it's a part of a green space v. urban buildings. Not true. In fact, if you look at the photos on that site, they're all from urban spaces, which makes sense, since rural areas are inherently full of open space. But there are studies that show that small amounts of open space--whether pocket parks or bike trails--are crucial in dense, urban environments. Great City has consistently supported smart density, while at the same time supporting maintaining green space in the urban environment.
34
Reality Check - you should check out the actual cover this week.
Yeah, that's a bit more than four.
Yeah, that's a bit more than four.
35
So, McGinn should be lauded for promising everything under the sun to almost every conceivable lefty interest group? Every week he comes up with a fantastic new idea, and no concrete proposals on how to fund any of it. He claims to be aware this city is hurting economically but seems comically oblivious as to how his ideas will fit into a shrinking budget. I love building to the future, but would like to get some idea he's aware at all of the present.
As far as I can see, McGinn will say whatever it will take to get more support & ultimately, elected. That's pretty conventional.
Also, his "core conviction", as Eli put it, is everything I hate about politicians and Seattle politics - manipulating information, continued reliance on debunked falsehoods, overreliance on direct democracy, and an infuriating smugness about how cars are intrinsically evil. One of his plans needs to be what he's going to do with those 110,000 vehicles (port and commuter alike) if he kills the tunnel... now, not 20 years from now when light rail may or may not exist.
As far as I can see, McGinn will say whatever it will take to get more support & ultimately, elected. That's pretty conventional.
Also, his "core conviction", as Eli put it, is everything I hate about politicians and Seattle politics - manipulating information, continued reliance on debunked falsehoods, overreliance on direct democracy, and an infuriating smugness about how cars are intrinsically evil. One of his plans needs to be what he's going to do with those 110,000 vehicles (port and commuter alike) if he kills the tunnel... now, not 20 years from now when light rail may or may not exist.
36
West Seattle Waiter @15: Mallahan and McGinn are both disgraces. Both are unqualified and arrogant.
I wouldn't call either candidate a disgrace. And I most certainly would not call Mike McGinn unqualified. Really, it would be hard to imagine a candidate for public office in Seattle who has a more impressive list of qualifications short of having held public office:
* Lawyer.
* Founder of Seattle Great City Initiative, now Great City.
* Past president of the Greenwood Community Council.
* Past president of the local Sierra Club chapter.
* Someone who has had a successful leadership role in multiple political campaigns.
If you've been involved in civic life in Seattle over this past decade, chances are you've rubbed shoulders with Mike McGinn. And chances are you've come away with the unmistakable impression that the man cares deeply about this city's future. The man's for real, and he's paid his dues. And then some.
I wouldn't call either candidate a disgrace. And I most certainly would not call Mike McGinn unqualified. Really, it would be hard to imagine a candidate for public office in Seattle who has a more impressive list of qualifications short of having held public office:
* Lawyer.
* Founder of Seattle Great City Initiative, now Great City.
* Past president of the Greenwood Community Council.
* Past president of the local Sierra Club chapter.
* Someone who has had a successful leadership role in multiple political campaigns.
If you've been involved in civic life in Seattle over this past decade, chances are you've rubbed shoulders with Mike McGinn. And chances are you've come away with the unmistakable impression that the man cares deeply about this city's future. The man's for real, and he's paid his dues. And then some.
37
Why do we constantly bitch about career politicians not doing what we ask of them, and then a guy like McGinn comes along -- not a career politician and governed by a desire to work on behalf of the people, doing as a leader and activist what our elected leaders fail to do. And we then bitch that he's not a career politician!
What the fuck?
What the fuck?
38
serotonein @35: So, McGinn should be lauded for promising everything under the sun to almost every conceivable lefty interest group?
Wow, these Mallahan supporters really have to twist themselves into these weird meta-arguments to try to avoid engaging anyone on the actual issues. Serotonein, if you think Mike McGinn's stances are too progressive for you, fine. And if you like Joe Mallahan's "Joe Lieberman Democrat" right-wing stances wrapped up in a gauzy vagueness, fine.
But stop trying to bullshit us that we as progressives are supposed to reject Mike McGinn because--God forbid--he's taking progressive positions.
It's a bit like telling Democrats in 2008, "Hey, this Obama guy is promising universal health insurance and action on climate change and getting us out of Iraq. But you just know he's going to disappoint you. So instead you should vote for John McCain, the guy you already know is totally on the opposite side on all these issues."
Or it's a little like telling a woman she should turn down her Prince Charming out of fear that he might become a wifebeater, and instead shack up with a loser that she already knows will be a wifebeater.
Wow, these Mallahan supporters really have to twist themselves into these weird meta-arguments to try to avoid engaging anyone on the actual issues. Serotonein, if you think Mike McGinn's stances are too progressive for you, fine. And if you like Joe Mallahan's "Joe Lieberman Democrat" right-wing stances wrapped up in a gauzy vagueness, fine.
But stop trying to bullshit us that we as progressives are supposed to reject Mike McGinn because--God forbid--he's taking progressive positions.
It's a bit like telling Democrats in 2008, "Hey, this Obama guy is promising universal health insurance and action on climate change and getting us out of Iraq. But you just know he's going to disappoint you. So instead you should vote for John McCain, the guy you already know is totally on the opposite side on all these issues."
Or it's a little like telling a woman she should turn down her Prince Charming out of fear that he might become a wifebeater, and instead shack up with a loser that she already knows will be a wifebeater.
39
Really, what the fuck is wrong with McGinn supporters that anyone who criticizes him must have everything they say twisted to the point that it's unrecognizable?! I'm not a Mallahan supporter so much as a McGinn skeptic, and his rabid supporters end up coming off the same as those who are behind LaRouche or Ron Paul with every unfortunate interaction.
Just to take your strawman at face value, no, I'm not against progressive ideas. I'm against someone coming up with a laundry list of ideas, and no practical follow-on ideas as to how any of them will be funded or implemented. It's unrealistic and I'd like more from a candidate.
Both candidates are committed Democrats, so this mudslinging campaign as to what Mallahan *really* believes grates tremendously. I was going to ask when you were going to accuse him of also being a stealth Muslim but you just effectively asked when he's going to stop beating his wife (or, worse, putting forth the idea that I support domestic violence).
I did bring up an issue I think is important, (overwhelmingly unbelievable campaign promises, what people realistically expect, and what that might say about his mayoral style), and all you could stoop to is personal attacks.
Just to take your strawman at face value, no, I'm not against progressive ideas. I'm against someone coming up with a laundry list of ideas, and no practical follow-on ideas as to how any of them will be funded or implemented. It's unrealistic and I'd like more from a candidate.
Both candidates are committed Democrats, so this mudslinging campaign as to what Mallahan *really* believes grates tremendously. I was going to ask when you were going to accuse him of also being a stealth Muslim but you just effectively asked when he's going to stop beating his wife (or, worse, putting forth the idea that I support domestic violence).
I did bring up an issue I think is important, (overwhelmingly unbelievable campaign promises, what people realistically expect, and what that might say about his mayoral style), and all you could stoop to is personal attacks.
40
I used to think McGinn was a nice but nutty guy. Now I don't think he is nice. I got another of his robo propaganda "surveys" last night, trying to create panic through lies and deceit about the bored tunnel. I'm waiting for the next round which will feature alien creatures being released by the digging. That worm of an attorney will stop at nothing to get in power.
41
Serotonein: McGinn supporters worship him like a prophet come to bring heaven to earth after wreaking havoc with the evil doers in their cars.
Come friend, have some Kool Aid... there you go, now isn't that refreshing? Here is a pillow, make yourself comfortable. The comet will be here shortly.
Come friend, have some Kool Aid... there you go, now isn't that refreshing? Here is a pillow, make yourself comfortable. The comet will be here shortly.
42
Yeah..lets turn the city over to a lawyer who rides a bike! Where the hell is Norm Rice when you need him.
44
serotonein @39: I'm not a Mallahan supporter so much as a McGinn skeptic...
serotonein later @39: Both candidates are committed Democrats, so this mudslinging campaign as to what Mallahan *really* believes grates tremendously.
Serotonein, if you're not a Mallahan supporter, why should a little bit of criticism of Mallahan based on policy grate on you so much that you have to accuse us of personal attacks and sounding like Ron Paul groupies? I mean, really, it's OK to admit you're a Mallahan supporter.
Tell me this, if Mallahan is such a committed Democrat, can you explain that whole thing about him working for Republican Slade Gorton? Also, you will acknowledge there's a wide range in what passes for a Democrat. Hey, Joe Lieberman even used to be one. What I'm doing is not accusing him of not being a Democrat (Gorton tenure notwithstanding). What I'm doing is accusing him of being a closet conservative by Seattle standards, or rather anything but a progressive. And this is based strictly on the little we've been able to divine about issues, not on "personal attacks."
Here's just a bit from Seattle Transit Blog's McGinn endorsement:
More...
serotonein later @39: Both candidates are committed Democrats, so this mudslinging campaign as to what Mallahan *really* believes grates tremendously.
Serotonein, if you're not a Mallahan supporter, why should a little bit of criticism of Mallahan based on policy grate on you so much that you have to accuse us of personal attacks and sounding like Ron Paul groupies? I mean, really, it's OK to admit you're a Mallahan supporter.
Tell me this, if Mallahan is such a committed Democrat, can you explain that whole thing about him working for Republican Slade Gorton? Also, you will acknowledge there's a wide range in what passes for a Democrat. Hey, Joe Lieberman even used to be one. What I'm doing is not accusing him of not being a Democrat (Gorton tenure notwithstanding). What I'm doing is accusing him of being a closet conservative by Seattle standards, or rather anything but a progressive. And this is based strictly on the little we've been able to divine about issues, not on "personal attacks."
Here's just a bit from Seattle Transit Blog's McGinn endorsement:
Joe Mallahan, [McGinn's] opponent, only offered the ridiculous assertion that voting on light rail would put an education bond measure at risk. He is apparently a blank slate on transit; his statements have been either entirely banal boilerplate about fighting for more bus service or unwarranted attacks on streetcars. Furthermore, he has accepted contributions from anti-transit sources like John Stanton. It’s especially difficult to tell how a Mallahan administration would turn out, but the signs are worrying, and the chances of further progress are slim.
45
Nothing puts in place a good, wise leader like a protest vote against the last guy, who isn't even running (unfortunately).
I admit I'm not fully up to date on either candidate, but so far I'm not getting many warm and fuzzy feelings about either. Either way, we're putting our city in the hands of of a political neophyte, who if he doesn't get chewed up by politics, might just fuck up on his own accord.
The only security I have is the thought that even if McGinn wins, he probably won't be able to stop the tunnel. That's right, I like the tunnel idea. Really, for a candidate who is supposedly all about picking up Obama's "yes we can" crumbs, he's going to tell us we can't afford something? Get that viaduct eyesore out of our waterfront before it lands *on* our waterfront. Drill, baby drill!
I admit I'm not fully up to date on either candidate, but so far I'm not getting many warm and fuzzy feelings about either. Either way, we're putting our city in the hands of of a political neophyte, who if he doesn't get chewed up by politics, might just fuck up on his own accord.
The only security I have is the thought that even if McGinn wins, he probably won't be able to stop the tunnel. That's right, I like the tunnel idea. Really, for a candidate who is supposedly all about picking up Obama's "yes we can" crumbs, he's going to tell us we can't afford something? Get that viaduct eyesore out of our waterfront before it lands *on* our waterfront. Drill, baby drill!
46
The artist's rendition is a knockout. Its line, coloring, and young-n-handsome-izing strongly suggest Mort Drucker's best work for MAD - early 70s, say. Well done!
47
Go down the list of all the Democratic districts in Seattle - they all endorsed Mike McGinn.
Hmmm.
Hmmm.
48
I'm still waiting for a coherent argument FOR Mallahan.
Seriously, you supporters, make your case. I understand why you don't like McGinn. But, make a case for Mallahan.
And...if you think the tunnel is a done deal and that all will be smooth with Mallahan in office? You've been fooled.
Seriously, you supporters, make your case. I understand why you don't like McGinn. But, make a case for Mallahan.
And...if you think the tunnel is a done deal and that all will be smooth with Mallahan in office? You've been fooled.
49
Let us now sing the praises of Mike McGinn per Eli Sanders' haliographic encomium. He offers "idealism and hope" and, what's more, he perambulates around town on a bicycle with facial stubble and informal attire! No doubt, he's won the image war versus the sterile Mallahan. Every article I've read conjoins the description of him as a lawyer, activist, and environmentalist. I voted for him in the primary, but now I feel both duped and outraged. In a recent Seattle Times profile, I was horrified to learn that he was a jurisprudent whore for corporate interests for the better part of his working life as a lawyer. He defended Burger King against wheelchair access for the handicapped! He represented AT&T against charges of intentionally misleading rural customers for mandatory service! The judge even fined him for withholding evidence. That's Noble? That"s progressive? McGinn states he was a corporate lawyer for his family's sake. He had an opportunity to pursue public interest law, but opted for the money. And I'm sure the law firm allowed hom to dress in jeans, open collar, and a beard. I suppose if Heinrich Himmler tooled around Auschitz on a bicycle to support his family then that would absolve him of moral complicity for his actions. So now I am faced with the abysmal choice between a corporate stooge and a corporate whore. What an enlightened mecca Seattle is! They're politicians folks!
50
Let us now sing the praises of Mike McGinn per Eli Sanders' haliographic encomium. He offers "idealism and hope" and, what's more, he perambulates around town on a bicycle with facial stubble and informal attire! No doubt, he's won the image war versus the sterile Mallahan. Every article I've read conjoins the description of him as a lawyer, activist, and environmentalist. I voted for him in the primary, but now I feel both duped and outraged. In a recent Seattle Times profile, I was horrified to learn that he was a jurisprudent whore for corporate interests for the better part of his working life as a lawyer. He defended Burger King against wheelchair access for the handicapped! He represented AT&T against charges of intentionally misleading rural customers for mandatory service! The judge even fined him for withholding evidence. That's Noble? That"s progressive? McGinn states he was a corporate lawyer for his family's sake. He had an opportunity to pursue public interest law, but opted for the money. And I'm sure the law firm allowed hom to dress in jeans, open collar, and a beard. I suppose if Heinrich Himmler tooled around Auschitz on a bicycle to support his family then that would absolve him of moral complicity for his actions. So now I am faced with the abysmal choice between a corporate stooge and a corporate whore. What an enlightened mecca Seattle is! They're politicians folks!
54
In the past, I would fill-in my ballot according to The Stranger's mock ballot page, or at least, go with their endorsements on the politicos and referendums I was undecided about. I will no longer trust The Stranger on their endorsements after they endorsed McGinn, whose sole reason for becoming mayor is to defeat the tunnel and whose sole agenda will distract him from other more important issues. Not that Mallahan is any better, but at least he doesn't have ONE pet peeve. McGinn must be obsessive-compulsive; he just won't let go of the tunnel. Enough on the viaduct already! We, the citizens of Seattle, are tired of that issue already!!! Let's move forward, instead of in reverse. McGinn boasts progressiveness--harping on the viaduct issue is not progress. If McGinn would let go of defeating the tunnel, he would get my vote as the lesser of two evils. But, not presently.
55
@54: I'm not seeing that. Look at McGinn's platform. Under "Transportation" he briefly mentions the tunnel, along with several positions on improved public transportation. And there are a dozen other sections on the page, all with lots of detail. Perhaps the tunnel opposition is one of his more controversial positions, but he's hardly obsessed with the issue, from my point of view.
56
@54, you're just being dishonest.
McGinn has released an 18-deck slide show showing his alternative plan to the viaduct replacement --- one that might actually make sense and help transit.
Further, he's the only candidate really talking about helping our school system and DISCUSSING taking it over if we continue to let it fail -- that politicians talk the talk on "improving schools" in order to win elected office but never holding themselves accountable. My uncle is a teacher and he says it best: we always talk about paying teachers more and helping schools during the rhetoric of a campaign but we immediately forget about it when it comes time to actually do so.
He also talks about internet infrastructre. Does anyone besides me hate dealing with Comcast? A fiberoptic network --- IF we could do it, and I have some concerns --- would be a public utility versus a hugely expensive cost to the taxpayer and would catch our city up with the 21st century.
McGinn has a lot of ideas. We need to discuss them, see if they'll work, if we can afford them, etc. Mallahan spends his time talking about why we whouldn't vote for McGinn instead of talking about his own record. Mallahan doesn't talk at all about any specific project or team he lead at T-Mobile besides the (admirable) one of providing phones to poor people. He never mentions, besides volunteering for Obama, any real civic involvement and engagement he had in a leadership role where he made a serious impact on society.
McGinn has done all of these things. He has won at the ballot box. He has taken leadership roles on issues directly connected with the public's interest and city/state government. He is qualified to be mayor.
Oh yeah, when you use a Nazi comparison, you lose the argument. You try to force us to defend what someone isn't versus what they are. Nice fucking try.
More...
McGinn has released an 18-deck slide show showing his alternative plan to the viaduct replacement --- one that might actually make sense and help transit.
Further, he's the only candidate really talking about helping our school system and DISCUSSING taking it over if we continue to let it fail -- that politicians talk the talk on "improving schools" in order to win elected office but never holding themselves accountable. My uncle is a teacher and he says it best: we always talk about paying teachers more and helping schools during the rhetoric of a campaign but we immediately forget about it when it comes time to actually do so.
He also talks about internet infrastructre. Does anyone besides me hate dealing with Comcast? A fiberoptic network --- IF we could do it, and I have some concerns --- would be a public utility versus a hugely expensive cost to the taxpayer and would catch our city up with the 21st century.
McGinn has a lot of ideas. We need to discuss them, see if they'll work, if we can afford them, etc. Mallahan spends his time talking about why we whouldn't vote for McGinn instead of talking about his own record. Mallahan doesn't talk at all about any specific project or team he lead at T-Mobile besides the (admirable) one of providing phones to poor people. He never mentions, besides volunteering for Obama, any real civic involvement and engagement he had in a leadership role where he made a serious impact on society.
McGinn has done all of these things. He has won at the ballot box. He has taken leadership roles on issues directly connected with the public's interest and city/state government. He is qualified to be mayor.
Oh yeah, when you use a Nazi comparison, you lose the argument. You try to force us to defend what someone isn't versus what they are. Nice fucking try.
57
While ihacker69 @54 is obviously being dishonest about McGinn, it seems that Yossarian is being disingenuous.
Yossarian, let me get this straight. So, because Mike McGinn may have, at times during his career, been a corporate shill for moneyed interests, we progressives should abandon him and his progressive agenda when the alternative is someone who has established himself in this race as the corporate shill for moneyed interests. This is a little like the argument going around about McGinn that goes something like, why vote for the guy you agree with for fear that he might disappoint you when you can vote for the guy you disagree with? It's like, why risk failure when you can guarantee failure?
Yossarian, you're obviously sophisticated enough that you don't believe in, and you're not motivated by, the arguments you're making.
Yossarian, let me get this straight. So, because Mike McGinn may have, at times during his career, been a corporate shill for moneyed interests, we progressives should abandon him and his progressive agenda when the alternative is someone who has established himself in this race as the corporate shill for moneyed interests. This is a little like the argument going around about McGinn that goes something like, why vote for the guy you agree with for fear that he might disappoint you when you can vote for the guy you disagree with? It's like, why risk failure when you can guarantee failure?
Yossarian, you're obviously sophisticated enough that you don't believe in, and you're not motivated by, the arguments you're making.
58
The Stranger and its readers seem to generally have drank the McGinn KoolAid.
Here's a guy groomed and sponsored by Vulcan and supported by a lot of urban development professionals who will continue to suck at the tit of the city's consultant dollars and benefit from unbridled growth offered by McGinn.
The myth that we can build our way out of our sustainability problems is part of the successful greenwashing of development. It is under this mantle that McGinn - McGreen - is now running.
A little bit of research by Eli or Domenic would uncover that. Or their intentional editorializing is overlooking these facts for whatever reason. But journalism standards are certainly questionable here. Totally lame.
Sadly, there are many who do not take the time to learn what is going on and only fly with The Stranger's endorsements (I used to be in the same league). These same people that think to themselves - "gosh, I'd love to live in a Great City". They eat free food and drank cheap beer at Great City events (paid for by the developers who are happy that those young hipsters are so gullible) and drink that KoolAid...
Here's a guy groomed and sponsored by Vulcan and supported by a lot of urban development professionals who will continue to suck at the tit of the city's consultant dollars and benefit from unbridled growth offered by McGinn.
The myth that we can build our way out of our sustainability problems is part of the successful greenwashing of development. It is under this mantle that McGinn - McGreen - is now running.
A little bit of research by Eli or Domenic would uncover that. Or their intentional editorializing is overlooking these facts for whatever reason. But journalism standards are certainly questionable here. Totally lame.
Sadly, there are many who do not take the time to learn what is going on and only fly with The Stranger's endorsements (I used to be in the same league). These same people that think to themselves - "gosh, I'd love to live in a Great City". They eat free food and drank cheap beer at Great City events (paid for by the developers who are happy that those young hipsters are so gullible) and drink that KoolAid...
59
@paulwashere @cressona
You people are so self-righteous. Stop your namecalling, if that's all you can do. Dishonest? Whatever you'd like to call me to defeat anything I'm trying to say.
I was simply repeating what I took from The Stranger's first endorsement of McGinn. From that article, it seems that McGinn's great fantasy is to defeat the tunnel. Well, I'm all for the tunnel.
I AM commenting on The Stanger's endorsement in The Stranger online, am I not? I'm not referring to any other publications or reports regarding McGinn's issues.
Thanks for your judgment, but I pride myself on living honestly.
You people are so self-righteous. Stop your namecalling, if that's all you can do. Dishonest? Whatever you'd like to call me to defeat anything I'm trying to say.
I was simply repeating what I took from The Stranger's first endorsement of McGinn. From that article, it seems that McGinn's great fantasy is to defeat the tunnel. Well, I'm all for the tunnel.
I AM commenting on The Stanger's endorsement in The Stranger online, am I not? I'm not referring to any other publications or reports regarding McGinn's issues.
Thanks for your judgment, but I pride myself on living honestly.
60
ihacker69 @59, don't start trying to backtrack on your dishonesty. You weren't describing The Stranger's coverage of Mike McGinn's campaign. You were describing Mike McGinn's campaign. And in doing so, you were lying about it.
And I quote: "McGinn, whose sole reason for becoming mayor is to defeat the tunnel and whose sole agenda will distract him from other more important issues."
Listen, if you feel so strongly that Mike McGinn is the wrong person to be mayor of Seattle, you should be able to make that case without grossly misrepresenting him.
And I quote: "McGinn, whose sole reason for becoming mayor is to defeat the tunnel and whose sole agenda will distract him from other more important issues."
Listen, if you feel so strongly that Mike McGinn is the wrong person to be mayor of Seattle, you should be able to make that case without grossly misrepresenting him.
61
Sorry ihacker69, I don't recall calling you any names, though you did call McGinn obsessive-compulsive, and I misidentified another blogger's comments who made the Nazi comparison, which was not you. Sorry about that.
I'm not being self-righteous. You said McGinn was one issue, and I listed a bunch of others.
I'm not being self-righteous. You said McGinn was one issue, and I listed a bunch of others.
62
I am under no circumstances voting for Malloran, I am just stating the obvious fact that the knight has tarnished armor.
63
As someone who has worked with Mallahan I can tell you this:
His mouth and ego are about the same size: X large!
Really, the man purchased his way into this primary, and he has to go negative all the time because he has no ideas of his own. That is, until Carla and his highly priced advisors tell him what to say.
I'm telling you, if Mallahan wins the election, he will make Nickels look like a long forgotten hero of yersterday.
His mouth and ego are about the same size: X large!
Really, the man purchased his way into this primary, and he has to go negative all the time because he has no ideas of his own. That is, until Carla and his highly priced advisors tell him what to say.
I'm telling you, if Mallahan wins the election, he will make Nickels look like a long forgotten hero of yersterday.
64
No McGinn, no more green-no-car bullshit for the rich... We pay like 10% sales tax and have no options to get around... Transit is slow and infested with mental illness and thugs, bicycling with vehicles is obviously for some rich sadomasochists... who can afford to live close to work or don't work at all...
What about a simple quality of life for most of the people?! I don't want to get on a bicycle and kill myself while inhaling all that carbon monoxide from idling vehicles, or being hit by a bus... that's retarded! Why we are not talking about express bus service from Queen Anne/West Seattle/ Capitol Hill to the eastside? Every damned metro bus goes downtown, wtf?! we don't all need to be downtown creeping through the blocks and listening to some mentally ill spitting out profanity just so we can change to another bus... This is bad enough, we do not need more service like this McGinn!!!
Times changed, this environmental agenda just traps people in poverty and creates more obstacles when we need to get around to sustain our lives here.
McGinn is just totally clueless about the quality of life for the poor. Making the commute harder by adding more dysfunctional slow crime infested bus service, reducing traffic lanes, and puncturing roads with crosswalk and bike lanes... this did not help anyone in the past 10 years... just created more traffic, conflicts, injuries, deaths, and lawsuits.
I don't know the other guy, but definitely not McGinn!
What about a simple quality of life for most of the people?! I don't want to get on a bicycle and kill myself while inhaling all that carbon monoxide from idling vehicles, or being hit by a bus... that's retarded! Why we are not talking about express bus service from Queen Anne/West Seattle/ Capitol Hill to the eastside? Every damned metro bus goes downtown, wtf?! we don't all need to be downtown creeping through the blocks and listening to some mentally ill spitting out profanity just so we can change to another bus... This is bad enough, we do not need more service like this McGinn!!!
Times changed, this environmental agenda just traps people in poverty and creates more obstacles when we need to get around to sustain our lives here.
McGinn is just totally clueless about the quality of life for the poor. Making the commute harder by adding more dysfunctional slow crime infested bus service, reducing traffic lanes, and puncturing roads with crosswalk and bike lanes... this did not help anyone in the past 10 years... just created more traffic, conflicts, injuries, deaths, and lawsuits.
I don't know the other guy, but definitely not McGinn!
66
McGinn was there for the Approve 71 rally. support him. http://www.flickr.com/photos/soggydan/40…
67
I like McGinn but his planned alternative to the tunnel--tear down the viaduct and extend Alaskan by 1 lane--positively BLOWS. Can someone help me understand why this important infrastructure choice should not be ruinous to McGinn's campaign?
69
I agree, I don't get it. I kind of like the cut of McGinn's jib EXCEPT for his idiotic stand against the tunnel. It's not his hard line position against the tunnel that is forcing me to vote for Mallachump, it's his irresponsible (and environmentally retarded) push for a highway along the waterfront as the solution. I live near the Market within sight (and earshot) of the viaduct and am horrified at what his surface/transit plan will force upon those of us who have to live 24/7 with whatever 'solution' is forced upon us.
70
Is comparing McGinn to Obama supposed to make me vote for him? Yes, Obama promised to remake this country. And, oh, yeah, nothing f-ing happened. We still live in a pile of sh*t and he is hellbent on reliving the first two (f-ed up) years of the Clinton reign. Comparing McGinn to someone who is busy breaking campaign promises left and right is not really helping your argument to vote for him.
71
What about McGinn's representation of a predatory lender in lawsuits against people losing their homes while he was at Stokes Lawrence? It doesn't make a difference to me what he did as a lawyer, but I'll bet it might to those of you reporters and supporters who keep lubing the constant McGinn hand-job because he's supposedly a "community activist."
72
Those who said that McGinn needs to dump his tunnel opposition are absolutely on the mark! But for that, he would have my vote. I CANNOT vote for someone who will bring back that debate (even though McGinn's position is the one that I originally supported). He needs to recognize that politics is compromise, not everyone got what they wanted, but all were consulted and came to agreement after a long, drawn out debate. Move on and win. Stay stuck in the past, and the race goes to Mallahan (who's such a douchebag I would never want him running the city).
73
Eli,
I know it's convenient for you (and the rest of the media/blogosphere) to tell yourself that "style becomes substance" because it gives you an excuse for writing about style rather than substance, i.e., absolves you from doing hard work involving actual facts/research....but asking us to vote based on our "feelings" and evoking "ancient narratives" or "defining times" or "civic moments" as an endorsement for a candidate is very, very silly.
I don't see how it's any different from the media urging us to vote for Bush in 2000 on grounds that, "Picture both candidates in your mind and ask this simple question: Which of these guys would I rather have a beer with?" And we all know how that turned out.
I know it's convenient for you (and the rest of the media/blogosphere) to tell yourself that "style becomes substance" because it gives you an excuse for writing about style rather than substance, i.e., absolves you from doing hard work involving actual facts/research....but asking us to vote based on our "feelings" and evoking "ancient narratives" or "defining times" or "civic moments" as an endorsement for a candidate is very, very silly.
I don't see how it's any different from the media urging us to vote for Bush in 2000 on grounds that, "Picture both candidates in your mind and ask this simple question: Which of these guys would I rather have a beer with?" And we all know how that turned out.
74
"A bullying, headstrong executive is on his way out."
If we elect McGinn, we'll be saying this again four to eight years from now.
If we elect McGinn, we'll be saying this again four to eight years from now.
75
This might be good, if it wasn't from the Stranger staff...The Stranger is a slanted as Fox News. Sad.
76
I like McGinn but do not like Obama.
Obama is style over substance. Where as McGinn is obviously the other way around.
Obama is style over substance. Where as McGinn is obviously the other way around.
77
One Issue in this Debate: Transportation, including a Seawall and Viaduct replacement. I am not for a surface option, for that would ruin part of the charm of our city. I am not for a replacement, as the viaduct is as ugly as the troll in Fremont. I am for a tunnel, and for a guy that is flip flopping on the only reason he is IN this campaign (if he weren't the only one to oppose it running for mayor, you tunnel-opposition folk would have spread your vote amongst a few leaving Nickels and Mallahan to fight it out now), he offers me no confidence. I like his public transportation agenda, but I have no faith he can do anything. At All. Tunnel.
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