Surveying the fallout: The postelection order in SB
A cursory analysis reveals that last night's historic election can only be characterized as a crushing defeat for Mayor Pat Morris' political and policy prospects.
With the exception of City Clerk Rachel Clark (whom everyone endorsed), Morris' coalition of endorsees fared about as poorly as possible:
- Marianne Milligan was defeated by arch nemesis Jim Penman.
- Carolyn Tillman couldn't keep Chas Kelley under 60 percent, despite four candidates in the field.
- Jim Mulvihill couldn't get to 37 percent of the vote against Wendy McCammack.
The one incumbent Morris endorsed is also the one incumbent who appears to not have gotten an electoral majority. Rikke Van Johnson, the mayor's staunchest ally, appears headed for a runoff against Betty Dean Anderson.
Now, the mayor's opposition - principly Penman, Kelley, McCammack - are ensconced in their seats and ready to reassert their policy powers, probably to the mayor's detriment on policy issues.
It should be noted that Penman beat the newcomer Milligan by a slim margin, about four percentage points. No matter - he's in office and free to assert his influence, probably in a way that will counter Morris.
We'll have a fuller story analyzing these implications in tomorrow's paper. The short version the morning after is that the election could have scarcely gone worse from Morris' perspective.
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Andrew Edwards. E-mail Andrew here.
We love your Blogg Robert!
FALLLOUT: Morris needs to be a big boy and recognize defeat. I bet his wallet is a tad lighter these days after funding Milligan's campaign. Heads up Morris, do your job and stop the antics, get along or be gone.
Do you think the mayor will finally get the point that he has to work with his council, not against it?
On another note, what's with the RED CROSS refusing to take good clean clothing for the fire victims, stating the only want new clothes?
The election is over; the initial vote count indicates Jim Penman has beaten back “Darth-Vader” again by being re-elected over the challenge of Ms. Marianne Milligan. Congratulations Sir, as you have fought an interesting fight and won for the good of San Bernardino.
Now, the real test is on your plate. Bridge building is in order as personalities must be set aside and stellar professionalism needs to prevail. You have a history of a demonstrated class act and that; above all, will be your best arrow in your quiver for future engagements. Never cower; never compromise when the issues are wrong. That is why you were re-elected. Regain your place of prominence and leadership and don’t let the temptation of a good ole mud fight prevail. Trust has again been bestowed upon you by the citizens of San Bernardino. Also Sir, please never loose sight of the axiom…”Sometimes it is hard to soar with the eagles… when you are surrounded by turkeys!”
John,
St John's on Arrowhead has a clothes closet, an outreach to many in our community. You could donate clothes or food there (especially canned tuna and peanut butter). They will get them out to people who can use them.
Karen