Sycophantic display with intertwined support of forum co-hosts, Gordon
Phil Gordon didn’t disappoint. The arrogant mayor, who only showed up at a single, hour-long forum of his own choosing, speaks in the measured tones of a well rehearsed spokesman for his slate of hand-selected council candidates. He expounds on the need for a slickly marketed sales tax increase, attempting to draw a parallel between that tax hike and public safety. He supports Proposition 2, insuring his own pay raise.
When asked if they preferred certain candidates to win the open city council seats, challenger Steve Lory said he wanted to see people of honesty who would stand up for the citizens and mentioned Stacey O’Connell. Gordon rattled off the names of his own slate: Maria Baier , Laura Pastor, Thelda Williams and Claude Mattox–who is running unopposed.
On the issue of illegal immigration, Gordon denied that Phoenix provided safe haven as a sanctuary city for those in our country in violation of the law. While claiming violent offenders are turned over to ICE, he took refuge in the standard refrain of Democrats, saying the “federal government is not doing the job.”
Lory responded to that question, saying, “If it looks like a duck and quacks like a duck….” His vow to end illegal immigration received a round of applause.
On the question of Proposition 3 or Home Rule, Steve Lory maintained the city has not benefited from Home Rule because it should employ, ”fiscal discipline.” Phil Gordon asserted, “Home Rule allows cities to determine their own destiny.” The measure allows for the expansion of taxing authority and provides an all too convenient safety valve, without oversight, for overspending.
Gordon pledged that if elected mayor, he would serve out his complete term and not run for governor in 2010. If he is truthful, that pledge effectively would put a nail in his quest-for-governor coffin. Later in the day, however, he equivocated, saying he has “no current plans, “adding,” I don‘t know what the future holds.”
The mayor’s race in Phoenix should be what is euphonically called a “no-brainer.” Steve Lory is far and away the superior candidate. But as bettors at Turf Paradise say, ”He’s a long shot.” Lory’s in an uphill battle against the Arizona Republic’s constant editorial board drumbeat, unions, grateful contractors and developers who received lucrative city contracts and in turn, supported Gordon’s campaign with max campaign contributions—along with a host of others wanting to ensure their cushy jobs.
