Mayor forum featured fast-talkers
With nine of the 11 candidates for mayor on hand and 21 possible questions, listening to Wednesday's candidate forum was like watching the lightning round of a television game show.
The candidates were given the questions ahead of time, but not told which they would answer. Then they were given just 45 seconds for each answer.
All of the questions dealt with downtown revitalization and redevelopment.
It made for good entertainment, a little like watching the early audition rounds of American Idol where you're never sure what's about to happen.
At one point, candidate Ashley Swearengin told the crowd she felt like she was on a speed-date, then quickly added "not that I've done that! I've just seen it on television."
The candidates talked so fast at times that they sounded like auctioneers pitching livestock at the County Fair.
Finally, after moderator Jim Tucker asked the group to speak more slowly, it was possible to hear more about their positions on the issues affecting downtown.
Which was good, because the forum may have also been the first chance for a lead pack to break away from the group. Seven of the nine candidates had clear plans, and an obvious passion for downtown.
The only problem was trying to get someone in the audience to say which candidate did the best. There were seven organizations sponsoring the forum, so most of those watching the debate were connected to a sponsoring group. Everyone said they liked to hear what the candidates thought, but no one was ready to name their top pick.
But if you judge by the crowds around them when the forum ended, Council Member Henry T. Perea, Swearengin and Council Member Jerry Duncan might be the front runners to make the two-candidate run-off after the June 3 primary.
-- By Denny Boyles
Comments:
I beg to differ on your last point regarding the crowds gathering around Ms. Swearengin, and Councilmembers Duncan and Perea. I was there as an impartial observer, and I did not see the crowds gathering around them as you point out. In fact, the debate was over and most people were headed for the door. Your observation is incorrect and so is your inference that these candidates might be the front runners.
Posted by: Miguel Martinez at April 3, 2008 8:10 PM
I, too, was there as an "impartial observer," and would support Denny's observations of the crowds gathering; even if this wasn't the case the three names listed as potential front runners here can be found elsewhere.
Perhaps a better estimate of the leaders is a comparison of the amount of information made available at each table. I understand that not everyone wants to spend money on printing and promotional materials, but how well will a mayor communicate (with other leaders and the community) while in office, if he or she can't communicate with potential voters beforehand?
Posted by: James Collier at April 4, 2008 8:34 PM
Come on Denny, can't you tell the truth once...the true shining stars were Dages and Boyajian, who actually present themselves like mayors. Harry Potter, who needs a hair stylist to get some control over that cowlick, and Duncan & Ashley were gone like the wind as soon as it wrapped. Job requirements at the Bee must be twisting reality.
Posted by: Katrina Reyes at April 6, 2008 8:53 AM
I am glad to say that I agree with the comments made by Mr. Martinez and Ms. Reyes. Although I was unable to attend this event due to a hip replacement surgery, I have spoken to dozens who have seen the forum. I applaud the organizations who take the time, money and effort to get involved with this election, but as a candidate and yes, a person who is new to running for office, I am appalled at how SOME of our local media will do anything to sell their story. Even if it shows a completely biased view and even if it means making statements that aren't exactly true and/or verified. I have stopped speaking to our local print media because I found out early, and the hard way, that they will print what sells, not what you said and if they can't verify something, they report what they think will sell. Again, even if this means that they hurt people or candidates who do not have the special interest money others do. There are a few great candidates in the many races going on who are only wanting a better Fresno for the people, but I suppose that is not as news worthy as skewing the story just enough to make one candidate look beter than another. I will stand strong in my beliefs that the people will listen to the words directly from each candidate, so there are no misconceptions and the people will make the right choices for a better Fresno and for someone who will protect the peoples' rights.
Posted by: Jim Boswell at April 14, 2008 10:18 AM
It will be intersting to see Ashley once and for all tell the public what she really does and how many jobs she has actually brought to Fresno as opposed taking credit for.Frankly, the City of Fresno is the major funder of the RJI which she purports to be a private sector venture. Reality is, she is a government employee paid by the taxpayers of Fresno.
I think the only job that the RJI has created is the job that the taxpayers are paying for
Good job Ashley !
Posted by: Sue Allen at April 20, 2008 7:17 PM
Sue, if Ashley wasn't one of the front runners, would you feel the need to single her out here?
I'd be more interested in who you support, not who you insist on tearing down.
Posted by: James Collier at April 21, 2008 9:26 AM
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