As I noted in today’s column, I was dissatisfied with what I got out of our endorsement meeting, so I went looking for his Web site, and found some other pertinent material. The Web site itself wasn’t all that helpful; it doesn’t seem to have been maintained. But the candidate has a preferred form of semi-mass communication: He has a long e-mail list, and it’s not unusual for him to send out his thoughts three or four times a day (perhaps we have the makings of a blogger). I’m on the list. Here’s what he had to say in reaction to my Sunday column:
Political season is upon us and here comes The State and Brad. One moment he praises Fisher, the next he cuts him. Of course, he ignores me as he usually does, but still gives credit to ideas I have advanced over the years. He just can’t seem to bring himself to put my name on them. Unfortunately, Fisher has gotten set up by Brad. Just read the two articles below and it is quite apparent. I have listed the web addresses if you also want to see comments from readers.
It appears Brad is setting us up to endorse Coble. He is trying to be a king maker and affect the cityelections (and he does not even live in the city). Fortunately, The State editorials are not well read, and Brad has lost his credibility with many. I say these both as I hear very little whenever there is an editorial such as this. In past years I would get much comment. Now, when I ask friends what they thought of an editorial, they look at me funny. I get so little feedback on State editorials that I have quit using them as a source of discussion. I dare say we get quite a lot of feedback and distribution via this email, enough that it would make The State’s editorial staff jealous. There is more to come as this is a close race, and I am willing to bet Coble does not go back in.
Classic Azar. Anyway, I should probably clear something up. I’m not about to say whom I think we will endorse at this point, but I will point out one thing, for those who have leaped to the same conclusion as Mr. Azar: As I explained on this blog, I’m the kind of guy who, forced to choose, will prefer being right — as I see the right — to being effective at something other than the right.
I can see how someone who assumes that it is always best to be effective could read my previous column and assume I’m raising Mr. Coble above Mr. Azar. But given the way I am, there is insufficient reason for anyone to be positive about that.
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Al Capone was effective, and the Chicago press loved him for a long time.