Analyzing endorsements

A very necessary conversation involves more than simply adding up which candidate was endorsed by the most people. It’s also important to understand something about the person who is making a particular endorsement. One look at the various people making endorsements this campaign cycle might be this view of some of us: Larry Fullerton is a very well respected member of our community. However, he does mention that Valero is a citizen of Benicia. The best definition of citizen is “... a member of a state or nation ... who is entitled to full civil rights.” Valero cannot vote.

I would be concerned why Larry choose the word “citizen” rather than “neighbor.” Valero, by far and away, with PAC contributions .— (however legal) and charitable contributions, is a neighbor that clearly believes that money makes a difference. Money (taxes and charity) is important.

However, it is best to buy the right things with it. I’m not certain who Bob “the Owl” Livesay” represents. I will refrain from petty remarks. Roger Straw provides a necessary service to the city. Roger claims 1,070 subscribers. I received 2,306 votes in the last election. Clearly neither Roger, Bob and certainly myself can claim to represent the majority of voters in Benicia.

But as I said, it is important to understand the person making an endorsement before giving his or her endorsement any weight. I’m not a member of the progressive Democrats. I’m not against Valero. The money I earned rigging scaffold in the Bay Area oil refineries made it possible for our family to afford a home in Benicia. However, I have been the victim of one accident in a refinery and this leads me to believe that we need to keep an eye on them. I am 68 years old and find myself more and more concerned with my health.

Clearly, with his concern regarding refinery emissions and his insistence that we suggest wearing face coverings at a timely moment, Steve Young is concerned about the health of our community and he should be elected Mayor.

Further, after 13 years of public service, Mark Hughes did make these remarks in the Benicia Herald: “The most important thing is your integrity. It is difficult to tell what the people in Benicia believe.”

When Steve says he will listen, he will. I also try to stand by what I say. Mark Hughes will remember that I felt that Tom Campbell should be eelected.

I would endorse Steve

Young, Tom Campbell, and Terry Scott. I was privy to a lot of small talk in 2018. I will indulge in repeating one comment. At one point, Tom Campbell will remember that he said to me, “Who wants to be mayor? You just get beat up.” Steve can take it.