Recently, a challenge to the petitions of mayoral hopeful Ernest Everett was kicked out of court. The Judge found the challenge, brought by former council candidate Russell Ziemba, untimely.
The political ménages à trois * that is the Democratic primary makes for interesting theorizing for both conspiracy fans and political watchers.
Council President Rodney Wiltshire is seen as an anti-establishment candidate. Patrick Madden is seen as the establishment candidate and Ernest Everett, another anti-establishment candidate. It could be that these are just three men who want to be mayor. Or, is Everett clandestinely working for the establishment (Democratic Chair Tom Wade) in order to split the anti-establishment vote, ensuring Madden wins the primary. Or is Everett sincere (and we think he is) but with a candidacy that plays into the hands of the establishment's hope of a split in the anti-establishment vote?
It's not a stretch to believe Ziemba brought the challenge at Wiltshire's behest. Ziemba would likely be a supporter of Wiltshire.
There is also nothing wrong with Wiltshire trying to knock Everett off the ballot for any legitimate reason. Wiltshire is vying for a serious political position, not president of his neighborhood watch association or the local Elks Club. Legal challenges exist for a reason and there's nothing wrong with exercising those challenges.
Thing is, Wiltshire should tread carefully. The Wiltshire and Everett campaigns feel like insurgent campaigns, with dedicated supporters that will go out and vote for their candidate in a blinding hail storm. Madden, of course, appears to be relying on the more run-of-the-mill primary voter. Perhaps more numerous, but less dedicated. Do Everett supporters move to Wiltshire if they feel Everett got an unfair shake? That's not a guarantee. The more logical step would be for Everett to step aside and support Wiltshire this go. As for Everett? Perhaps a run for council next time around. He appears to be a promising young man with a future, if he plays this hand right.
* Who is the bread and who is the meat in this sandwich yet to be determined
12 comments:
Everett's a solid guy and wants the best for Troy. If Wade's using him its not Everett's intention
Everett needs to step aside. That will give Rodney the best chance of getting rid of Wade's guy. Every vote counts and we don't want to end up with Madden. Nice enough guy but I worry about who is pulling the strings.
My 2 cents: Madden represents the grownup wing of the Democratic party. Everett is a great guy, but his time is yet to come, and Rodney has his moments but he is just too immature.
Wade is on Ernest's committee to fill vacancies. Food for thought.
Anyone better than Gordo.
Can someone actually tell me what Wade's done? Sounds personal between him and Rodney and Ken.
I think Wade acted like a strong party leader, for good or ill, and Rodney felt slighted as if he was owed some kind of deference. Their attempt to oust Wade a few years back, along with most of the North Greenbush crew was an abject failure. Their attempt to stack the committee also failed. If he fails this time, Rodney's done.
The real question is, what has Rodney accomplished other than trying to get press?
The accomplished missing both budget votes as Council Prez.
He's consistent, then.
Bottom line- anyone but Gordon. Fortunately he's too busy juggling wife, kid, Glenn Close, police, Jimino, and moving vans to really campaign much.
Rodney was constantly undermining Lou and then wonders why he gets no respect from the party? DUH!!
Amen!
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