Jean Quan for Mayor!

We have a mayoral election coming to Oakland this fall, and I plan to vote for Jean Quan. She's a serious grass roots organizer. I have probably seen her around Oakland/my hood than any other local politician. Here are some videos from her website. And is you want to get a lawn sign click here. I plan to get mine today!

A Change for the People

In the paper this morning (yes, we still get one of those), was an article discussing the history of healthcare reform. In 1966 LBJ passed Medicare after a long struggle with legislature, providing healthcare for the elderly. After other healthcare reform attempts by Nixon (a rebublican!) and Clinton, Obama stands alone with LBJ making healthcare reform a reality, and not just a failed battle in congress. So, this is a historic moment to be savored. I know many are against this bill (e.g. tea party people), but many more are for it than against it. Decades from now we will all praise the passing of this bill. Who's down on Medicare or Social Security? Very few, indeed. Most everyone realizes that these programs are essential for our nation's well-being. LBJ went to Independence, Mo. to sign Medicare into law. And the very first person to sign up for the program was Harry Truman. How cool is that?

The video is from the White House's website, showing a family's struggle with our current healthcare system.

The Upcoming Mayoral Election in the O

Oakland's current mayor, Ron Dellums, is essentially non-existent. He did get a lot of press during the presidential primaries--he travelled the state rallying for Hillary. That move ruffled my feathers! How could he make himself so available for a national election, and neglect to actively run his own city? He seems like a good guy, but well past his prime. He was a state representative in the House, and did some good then. Well into his 70's now, he has no game. Oakland is not a rest stop on your way to retirement, Mr. Dellums. This is a busy turbulent city, rife with issues--and needs dramatic reform in many arenas. Why did we elect a respected but depleted and tired mayor? Let's not ask him back, Oakland.

That brings me to the upcoming election. My district's councilwoman, Jean Quan, the underdog in the June election will be battling Don Perata, known dirty-dealer and termed-out member of the CA state senate. He's been embroiled in controversy for the past 10 years. He's never been indicted, but he's plenty scummy. As you can see, I'm not a big fan of Perata. I hope Jean Quan wins. It's a looooong shot. She's very active in the community, a real grass-roots leader. Will Oakland be brazen enough to hire its first female mayor? Someone who's not a career state politician, but knows and is committed to local issues? We shall see...

For little Sadie's future, I hope it's Quan!

JEAN QUAN FOR OAKLAND 2010!

Here's a link to a Chronicle article on the race:

http://articles.sfgate.com/2009-04-13/bay-area/17194175_1_mayor-s-race-woman-mayor-councilwoman-jean-quan