[Mpls] 5th Ward Candidates forum

[Mark Hanson]

I also attended the Thursday night forum at the Urban League, and thought it was very interesting.  I don't live in the Ward (I live in 2), but this is an intriguing story. As others have said in this forum, the organizers did a great job, and it was clear early on that the meeting was for serious people discussing serious business.  That fact combined with a strong turnout speaks very well for the importance of this contest and the voter's investment in the outcome. 

I'd never seen either of the candidates in person, but have observed them in action on the council through the wonders of public access TV.  CP Johnson Lee's speaking style was often dazzling.  She and I would disagree on a handful of issues, but I respect her passion and commitment.  CP Samuel's performance was curious.  He was unable to articulate specific policy positions on some points, instead reminding the audience of all the meetings he has attended or led.  That being said, I sensed a deeply personal investment in the future of the Ward, which I found to be sincere and quite moving at times.

Both of the candidates displayed an ability to give us some great 'stemwinder' rhetoric, which is a refreshing change from the dry and meandering speeches we often hear from candidates.

In explaining the rules up front, the organizers requested that the discussion be non-partisan, which held for the most part.  Given the zeal with which some Green Party folks on this list have defended CP Johnson Lee, I kept waiting to hear Green themes that we heard from the mayoral candidate, CP Zimmerman, or Ward 2 Green candidate Cam Gordon.  For the most part, I didn't hear them. For example, I didn't hear any reference to a 'wind power cooperative' or other long term sustainability issues.  I could match up more of CP Johnson Lee's points to a Republican-esque orientation, which I don't think is a bad thing.  She echoed 'ownership society' themes on which the President campaigned.  She spoke strongly in support of promoting local businesses, acknowledging that jobs and neighborhood stability don't come from government programs, but from entrepreneurs.  She emphasized strong families and mentoring of young people.  I applaud all of those positions.

CP Samuels spoke a lot about his ability to build strong alliances with the current mayor, the county commissioner, and majority coalitions on the council to get things done for his ward, and I would give him a 'win' on that point.

Voters in Ward 5 are fortunate to have two qualified, well-matched candidates from whom to choose.  It will continue to be an interesting contest to watch.

Mark Hanson
Prospect Park