The candidate search... Where's Peter?

Yesterday, I went to another one of the countless candidate forums held in the community.  This time, I went to the Asian American Democrats of Texas forum to see who would show up.  It's interesting that since the City of Houston's elections are non-partisan, both Democrats and Republicans show up for the event.  It's more of a get out the vote effort.

As with most of these things, the Mayoral candidates get to speak first.  Gene Locke and Annise Parker both gave their five minute talks about improving Houston, bringing business to town, etc. Then, it was Peter Brown's turn.  However, instead of the candidate, his deputy campaign manager spoke.  Some people in the audience were wondering where was Peter Brown?

Like he does every summer, Brown is in France for the week.  I'm told he's got a nice place along the coast.  His absence was noticed more, this being an election year.  However, it's significant for more than one reason.  First, the obvious.  We are heading into the long slog of election campaigning before the November election.  Every day counts.  People notice who goes to what forums, and who shows up when.  On the personal side though, Brown is marking a different milestone.  His son Chris, who is the Chief of Staff for Council Member Ronald Green, just got engaged a few days ago.  The entire family is doing some celebrating in France.

The Mayoral candidates aside, I had a chance to listen to a number of other city council candidates give their stump speech.  Mike Laster, who is running to replace term limited M.J. Khan in District F, was the biggest name dropper.  Since his district has a heavy Asian population, he was ticking off names of people in the audience to show that he knew his constituents.

There were 23 candidates in all, and I'm sure many will be at some other candidates forum tonight.  This is the political season!

Comments

[Jesus_Loves_You!]

So, this guy is "Outa Town" Peter Brown? I thought we have had one of those "Outa Town Browns" for Mayor already?

And on the coast of France, in his family's(wife's family's??) mcmansion, no less.

Great, this guy Peter Brown sounds like another pretentious elite ... didn't we just have one of those for Mayor??? And he still be Mayor right now, but he's spending 40% of his Mayoral time scurrying around Texas trying to convince unassuming folk to make him into a Texas Senator.

Out on the road spinning yarns about what good his Mayor-ship has done for Houston... as long as you're not a puppy or mentally handicapped folk.

Where is Ralph the Plumber?? He should run again.

[Allen Yee]

The speeches were pretty good as a whole. I wonder if the rumor is true that Peter was considering going for a City Council position, I would hope not. On another point, I am very surprised to see Laster get the endorsement from AADT. How tacky was it for him to break in mid speech to start name dropping?!? That stunt was a clear demonstration of old boy politics and was an indicator that he does not need to be in office. However, it did stroke a lot of egos, like they need more of that... Alas, some people like their egos stroked so they can feel important rather than doing something for the community on their own... ah, the benefit of electing our friends. Will Laster do us proud? I rather not test those waters myself.

[Robert Kane]

Allen, my sentiments EXACTLY, this is why I have chosen to run... we don't need more Laster's in public office, message me on my website if you'd like