I voted for Ashley Swearengin because she has shown an excellent command of the issues, and an ability to work with others both in the business world and the arena of politics. I am excited about her vision for Fresno, and her heart to put us in the forefront of California cities as a first-class destination. Her postive upbeat style is going to be an example of the "New Politics" that is demanded by fatigued voters. Go ASH!

I held an election party at my house Monday night. There were four of us: one 30-something and three 20-somethings. All registered Democrats but with a fair amount of conservative leanings in certain areas. We had watched the two-hour mayoral debate on KSEE 24 the night before and had studied the sample ballot statements and the websites of each mayoral candidate.

The overwhelming picks in our group were Henry T. and Ashley. Their youth was the deciding factor. I think we four agreed that either of them would be a good mayor. But I think the scales tipped a little to Henry T., mostly because of his active support of the arts and his commitment to developing and supporting alternative transportation.