There is a letter to the editor in today's paper from Fresno City Council Member Jerry Duncan defending Mayor Alan Autry's temper tantrum at the U.S. Conference of Mayors annual meeting in Los Angeles. I have always thought Autry had impressive potential as a leader, but now he's showing himself to have the passion for public service, but not the temperament. That disappoints me. Please tell me he was just having a bad day..
Contrast his tirade with the masterful job Sen. Dianne Feinstein did on "Fox News Sunday" this week while debating Sen. Trent Lott. Take notes, Mr. Mayor. This woman is amazing.
I understand that he's an actor, but in this case, Autry was just acting out. It reminded me of the cartoon show on Comedy Central called "Lil Bush?" (Careful now, before you click, it's edgy humor.) Well, this display of temper makes me wonder if it's time to cook up a show of our own called "Lil' Autry." Now that could be fun.
I agree with what Mayor Autry did. (And I don't always agree with him). He had every right to express his opinion. He seems to - for the most part - say the toughest things in the nicest way!
I don't know whether or not that is a commendable quality; Sometimes I do find myself wishing that all conservatives adopt the confrontational stance of Ann Coulter; At least we would know, instantly, where everyone stood.
But, Autry intemperate? Doesn't fit!
He's better off NOT associating with a bunch of Maoists anyways!
Mr. Duncan implies that the Bee wouldn't be chiding Autry if he resigned over a resolution supporting the war. But by the same token, would Mr. Duncan be supporting the mayor if that were the case? Charges of hypocrisy usually cut both ways in politics, as the one making the charge is usually just as guilty as the other.
As for the rest of Mr. Duncan's letter, I can only wonder at what sort of cognitive dissonance is required to believe that the best way to "support the troops" is to leave them in harm's way.