On opening my morning newspaper, I was disappointed but hardly surprised to learn that our local kingmakers at the Star Tribune have failed to endorse Scott Benson for City Council in Ward 11. While I bear no ill will toward Mr. Benson's worthy opponent, I cannot help but be amused by the newspaper's transparent efforts to dismiss well-qualified candidates whose only apparent shortcoming is their failure to endorse the McClatchy corporate agenda. Dare to openly criticize the bloated public subsidy of the downtown Target project and in the Star Tribune's myopic view of the world, be relegated to the status of political wannabe. Its editorial slant toward "business as usual" in city politics cannot escape even the most casual reader. Of course, Mr. Benson's support of Mr. Rybak's candidacy certainly did not endear him to senior editors, who fear political reform even more than stagnant circulation.
Distortion by omission is an old political tactic and the Star Tribune editorial has carefully downplayed Mr. Benson's exemplary qualifications by ignoring his well-considered positions on environmental stewardship, economic development, controlling crime, support for the arts, and the expansion of affordable housing. The "broader vision for the city" cited by the newspaper as a deciding factor actually belongs to Mr. Benson. Fortunately, one need only visit his web page to learn the details of his progressive platform. >From my perspective, Mr. Benson exhibits precisely those qualities most needed in City Council members: unquestioned integrity, hardworking, a keen intellect, and a sincere desire to listen to all points of view. I have no doubt that Mr. Benson will best represent the interests of the citizens of the 11th ward and the city as a whole, focusing on issues directly relevant to people's everyday lives, issues at the heart of urban living. For me, this is what is meant by attending to the "basics." What more could one ask of a Council Member? So despite failing to gain the nod from the Star Tribune, it's clear to me that Mr. Benson is the stronger of the two candidates in the 11th ward and enjoys wide support among DFLers, Greens, and independent voters alike. Perhaps even a few Republicans. For now, I'll take comfort in the knowledge that Mr. Benson will prevail on Election Day. Dennis Jon Ward 11 - Park District 6 _______________________________________ Minneapolis Issues Forum - A Civil City Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subscribe, Unsubscribe, Digest option, and more: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
