Discuss: Wendy Davis vs. Kim Brimer
by Steve SmithOK, I’m an established Wendy Davis homer, so you already know what I’d say about this, but I wanted to open this up for discussion:
From J.R. Labbe’s Sunday column: “Republican Kim Brimer and Democrat Wendy Davis are formidable political foes. Both are experienced public servants and savvy campaigners. If and when the day comes that the Texas Supreme Court says Davis is qualified to run for the state’s Senate District 10 seat, voters will have a tough decision to make on who will best serve their interests in the state capital.”
I thought the sentence had an interesting construction. Is this going to the Supreme Court? Does the Supreme Court need to rule Wendy eligible to run? I wasn’t aware an appeal had been filed or that the she wasn’t eligible to run today. Did I miss something?
And is anyone else tired of the courtroom stuff and wanting to discuss real issues? If so, what are your key issues in this race?
Tags: Kim Brimer, wendy davis
52 Comments, Comments or Pings
Suzette
Key Issues?
*Revisiting Unenforceable State Laws such as Dog Tethering Law
*Make Animal Cruelty Laws more effective
*Prison Reform, especially for non violent crimes
*Legalization of Marijuana Laws much like our current Alcohol Laws
*Illegal Immigration
*Finding a way to hold parents accountable for their children’s upbringing, education, abiding the laws, etc.
*transparency in government
*more supportive help for mental illness for smaller non profits
*more accountability for non-profits businesses
*more tax breaks for going green (businesses and residential)
*addressing corruption in our utility companies (hockey stick electrical spikes)
*tax breaks for companies who hire x-felons (get rid of the 28 day rule)
*focus more on the people of Texas and our quality of life at the neighborhood levels and how the State Laws affect us and how the laws will be actually enforced at City level
Jul 29th, 2008
Kevin Buchanan
Development reform – efforts to encourage smart growth and make real traditional urbanism easier.
Transportation reform – far fewer dollars for highways and roads, more dollars for rail (of all varieties – regional, commuter, light, streetcar, etc.).
Jul 29th, 2008
Pete Wann
I’m a three issue voter this year:
The environment — I like it. I’d like to keep it as clean as possible. More specifically, I’d like to see instituted some tough standards for new building construction like requiring they be sited and designed to use passive heating and cooling techniques, etc. (Our buildings use 40% of all of the electricity generated in the US, largely to heat and cool them. Imagine how much less natural gas, coal, and oil we’d need if more buildings were net-zero energy users!) I’d also like to see incentives like tax breaks for businesses to install solar panels and take other energy-saving steps. (NO, just recycling doesn’t count.) Lastly, Texas needs net-metering laws for homeowners so that we can produce our own power and sell what we don’t use back to the grid.
Total reform of the TABC and “Blue Laws” — Did you know that microbreweries have different, MUCH more restrictive rules for sales and marketing than the big boys? That you can buy wine at a vineyard (direct from manufacturer) but you are REQUIRED BY LAW to pay at least two and sometimes more middlemen for the beer that’s brewed right here in your hometown? Why can you buy beer and wine on Sundays (only after you’re changed out of your church clothes!) but not liquor? It’s time to bring that stuff into the post-prohibition era.
Legalization of poker in Texas — So-called “Card Rooms” have been safe, legal, and heavily taxed in California for YEARS. It’s ridiculous that I can’t play TEXAS Hold’em legally for profit in the state who’s name it bears. It’s also ridiculous that if I want to take my chances and play in an underground game, I risk being arrested, robbed, or worse. It’s ridiculous that VFW halls get busted for raising money for themselves with poker tournaments, but every church in the state can hold a “casino night” with nary a whiff of complaint. Mostly it’s ridiculous that we let an insane amount of potential tax dollars run across ALL SIX of our state borders for century-old puritanical reasons.
Jul 29th, 2008
David AKA Rico
Safe Passing Law – Revisit the bill Mr. Brimer emasculated last year calling for a minimum passing distance from cyclists on Texas roads.
Stricter classification of common carriers as it pertains to eminent domain.
Jul 29th, 2008
Jim Wilson
David!
You are spot on! $4 a gallon gasoline, more cyclists than we’ve seen since the League of American Wheelman (bicyclists) rallied for paved public roadways in our nation- that’s right, bicyclists were the major factor in this nation’s first paved public roadways.
Mr Brimer appears to be on another planet- not here in North Texas where the people he represents live. He killed the safe passing bill for cyclists. He says cyclists don’t belong on rural or farm-to-market roads, seems they get in his way out near his ranch! He supported safe routes to school funding, that’s nice as long as you don’t venture too far from school, don’t hope for motor vehicles providing you safe distance, and don’t see your bicycle as a form of transportation! I say- Get with the program sir! – but its too late and he’s to far gone… time for a new voice, someone who could carry our views to Austin.
While Mr Brimer works to eliminate Wendy Davis from being able to run, he should be learning what those he represents want and need. Simple, I’ll continue to bicycle, and need him to allow someone else to represent me in Austin!
Jul 30th, 2008
Jacko
This is not meant to flame something up, but I’m legitimately interested. I’m somewhat new to Fort Worth and haven’t seen any bike lanes here. Was Wendy behind a big push for that? I still get yelled/honked at when riding so I’m just wondering what she did for this area as far as that’s concerned.
Jul 30th, 2008
Pete Wann
Welcome to Fort Worth, Jacko! I’m not from here, either, but I really like it! I think the city has a lot to offer newbies and old-timers alike.
Bernie probably knows more of the story, but AFAIK Wendy never did anything to deliberately inhibit the construction of bike lanes, like Brimer did with the safe passage laws. I’m sure someone will correct me quickly if this is inaccurate.
There are “bike routes,” which I understand were MANY years in the making, but obviously those aren’t the same thing.
Jul 30th, 2008
Kevin Buchanan
Jacko,
As Pete said, there are bike routes marked with sharrows – primarily in the Near Southside, but also to the north of downtown (they didn’t do anything in downtown because the city considers downtown to be one big bike route, apparently). That’s about all we’ve got.
Fort Worth South, Inc. is talking about re-striping Magnolia Avenue to have fewer traffic lanes and dedicated bike lanes, which will hopefully be the next step towards a greater accommodation of cyclists.
Jul 30th, 2008
Bernie
Indeed Wendy has always been an advocate of improved bicycle and pedestrian facilities; in fact, she is a cyclist herself, so she understands the importance of improved bicycle infrastructure on a personal level, something most legislators can’t say.
Jul 30th, 2008
Jim Wilson
As stated above, Wendy is a cyclist. Mr Brimer helped kill the Safe Passing Bill. I believe Wendy Davis (correct on this Bernie?) will strongly support a Safe Passing Bill for cyclists next year (after replacing Mr Brimer in Austin).
The “sharrows” downtown were part of a NCTCOG/Fort Worth plan from 1999. A plan which the City Council spoke highly of for… well, for too long with no movement. With the interest and showing of 100+ cyclists at a FW City Council Meeting, those routes came to fruition. The Bike Route signs (yuck) are not what I’d want, but they’re a start- I feel safe in saying we won’t be using those again.
On a very positive front, the City of FW has hired a City Planner (Don Koski) who has extensive urban bicycle planning experience. They also provided him time and resources to create a FW Bicycle Study Technical Committee to develope route/lane/trail plans for the entire city that should be incorporated into a True transportation plan. The Map is awesome, he’s done a great job of it. The plan, and policies we’ve developed as part of this committee will likely be brought to the City Council this fall- we’ll make sure everyone knows when as we’ll need a BIG showing of support in-order to see real funding.
Oh, back to Brimer/Davis;
If you’re a long-term representative and most of those you represent don’t know who you are- hmm not good.
If you think a safe passing law for cyclists (must provide minimum 3 feet when passing) shouldn’t apply when there’s no shoulder- hmm not good.
If you’re an incumbent Republican in Texas but find a former FW councilwoman now registered as democrat is nearly equal in the polls with you- hmm, you’ve done something wrong.
Just seems to me, maybe if all that’s true, then you’ve lost touch with those you represent and should step aside. Thank you for your time served Mr Brimer- good bye and enjoy retirement, I’ll be careful and alert when I bicycle by your ranch.
Jul 30th, 2008
Bernie
Correct, Jim. Wendy does support the Safe Passing Law.
Jul 30th, 2008
Sarah Prentiss
I don’t like labeling people but in the case of Wendy Davis I must. Wendy Davis is not a Democrat, at least not the Democrat I was raised with in Fort Worth. She’s a screaming liberal (okay, now I’ve said it). Nine years ago she decided that the city of Ft. Worth should not be in the the business of selling firearms. It wasn’t of course! However, it had rented WR Col. to be used for gun shows for (then) over 20 years. Ft. Wt. City manager and Ft. Wt. Police Chief at a council meeting confirmed that the show was well run, paid its bills, and had never had an accident, injury, or even a hint of a “bad” sale. Ms. Davis’s project to shut down the gun show was quashed by her fellow Democrats on the council but watch it Texas. She wants to be everyone’s mommy-in-politics. We need to keep Senator Brimer. He’s a proven performer for Ft. Worth
Aug 24th, 2008
Adam S.
Sarah, you would be more convincing if your post didn’t read like talking-points from the office of Sen. Brimer.
Wendy Davis not liking gun shows, if that’s true, doesn’t support your contention that she wants to be everyones “mommy-in-politics.”
It would be nice if you could follow-up that “Sen. Brimer is a proven performer for Fort Worth” with an example or two.
Aug 24th, 2008
Eastsider
Wendy Davis was the one who first called for a reconvening of the Gas Drilling Task Force to protect the citizens of Ft. Worth w/out support of the Mayor. I’m not familiar with anything that Brimer has done for Ft. Worth but I know for a fact that Wendy Davis isn’t scared to fight for the people. That alone gets my vote. I’m with Adam, hopefully Sarah will provide us with an example of two of what Brimer’s performance has been for the people in Ft. Worth.
Aug 24th, 2008
cozette
I don’t know Wendy Davis but I’ve done work for her. She didn’t strike me as a fire breathing liberal at all. If you look at her record for Fort Worth it’s pretty impressive. The developers I know that are building our new urban areas (we’re all so excited about) tell me she was very efficacious in that regard. Has she gone as far as i’d like to see her go in terms of proactive urban developement? No. I’d like to see prescriptive building codes in lieu of our proscriptive approach. But I’ll compromise and settle for the right direction even though a candidate doesn’t go as far as I would. Unlike, Sarah I can’t be a one issue voter, with so many problems before us that tack doesn’t make sense nor do applying simplistic labels. For example, the fiscally conservative R’s have been in power in Washington DC for some time, yet, the label fiscal conservative doesn’t seem to fit, does it? Like, Sarah, I am not in favor of gun control but being FAR left of social issues I can hardly fall in with that crowd. Understanding political reality isn’t as simple as some would have us believe.
Maybe in this age of complicated issues, and more complicated sets of individual circumstances, the two party system with its diametrical opposition and deep entrenchment thereof, has become an impediment to any real progress. I don’t know if the solution is an increase in the number of parties participating (realistically participating, not relegated to the fringes), or a more parliamentary system.
I do urge the posters to not fall into the trap of thinking that folks of opposite position are inherently intellectually inferior, that is factually incorrect, and serves no purpose other than to deepen the rift. When confronted by an aggressively asserted opposite position, most people will retract into a more steadfast defense of their own position. In Aikido we say this is the linear defense to a linear attack, it is instinctual. I believe we need to step back and take a softer approach, state our positions in the manner of a slow dance, not the soundbite staccato of modern political intercourse, and allow for the concept of the honorable opponent, rather than the evil enemy, in our internecine affairs. We should rail against the Michael Moore’s and the Ann Coulter’s of of the world with equal vehemence since they represent an impediment to the type of discourse that will bring us toward mutual respect and progress.
I believe some of the neocons here, as evidenced by their posts to be both intelligent and patriotic, I feel the same about myself and many of those who have espoused the left leaning side on things. I allow that we can be both intelligent and patriotic, and yet differ on the issues at hand.
Aug 24th, 2008
Pete G
Thanks cozette, that’s one of the finest comments you’ve ever left on this site.
Aug 24th, 2008
chris
I’m a one-issue voter this year. If the candidate supports Tom Craddick, count me out. The autocratic rule of the people’s chamber has got to stop.
Aug 24th, 2008
John MacFarlane
I agree with Pete that we need to legalize gambling in Texas (that happens to be one of Kinky’s ideas to raise money for schools). I don’t know if WD is for or against this, but it sure would help to improve our schools.
WD did a great job in revitalizing her district by bringing the idea of New Urbanism to the forefront. I’m all for light rail, in-street trolley system, metroplex wide transportation network. I’m sure WD will pul for that kind of stuff.
Go Wendy!
Aug 25th, 2008
Louis
Sorry guys and gals…Wendy is going down in flames. The only thing she has ever done for this city is spend our tax dollars so that she could support her title company with the deveopers big bucks.
She was also one of the designers of her current situation when she supported the change in the City Charter that requires a council member to hold over in office until a replacement is sworn in….in accord with (also) the city charter. Now if she is elected she will not be able to serve. I cannot vote for either candidate, and have no sympathy for her current situation.
Aug 25th, 2008
VinnyV
Going down in flames is a pretty bold statement seeing as how people probably know more of the positive things Wendy has done for this district than Kim (has he done any?).
I do have to strongly disagree with the gambling issue that has been raised here. I would probably be in support of it if Texas politicians weren’t so good at being Texas politicians. Although it’s not easy to find a great source on the history of the Texas Lottery, if you can piece together the facts you will see that a simple idea in the 90’s of letting scratch-offs pay for education was castrated and left for dead by politicians that diverted revenues (who knows where?), a terrible and bureaucratic Commission, and very shady contractors (e.g. G-tech). In the end, we were left with an education system ranked among the lowest in the country despite our ever-increasing spending per child.
I am now totally of the opinion that any politician that uses education and the images of children to justify their support of a half-assed scheme like the lottery is solely out for their own benefit.
By the way, most church casino nights that I’ve ever seen are operating without complaint because the winners never take REAL winnings home and the losers aren’t in risk of pissing away their savings / car / home, etc. All betting is done with chips or fake cash that is not able to be redeemed back. It may seem like a minor detail, but that – coupled with the fact that fellow church members aren’t likely to take the shirt off your back from you – make it a safe and harmless game.
Aug 26th, 2008
Kevin Buchanan
Louis,
Supporting redevelopment of urban areas around downtown was one thing Wendy was big on, and is perhaps the single most important thing we can do to improve this city’s future. That’s enough for me to support her. It is a huge step forward for the city.
Everybody else,
I’m not in favor of gambling. Not for any moral reason, but because it teaches people to expect something for nothing, which is an attitude that has done horrible damage to this country.
Aug 26th, 2008
Scott
When Tandy wanted to buy the property downtown, wasnt Wendy Davis the one who helped move everyone out of the Butler housing projects, and move them into the Stonehenge area (off hulen), and then immediately the council boundries were changed and realigned.
Bernie, You are obviously Pro Wendy Davis, which is fine.. but didnt you run against her for city council… I heard you speak several times, and you never seemed like a fan of hers..
But now you work for her, correct???
Also
Wendy Davis is so loved that the Fort Worth Police and Firefighters have taken to the streets to support Brimer. Several stopped at my house and handed out cards and talked about how Wendy was the worst City Council person EVER for Police & Fire in Fort Worth..
That was enough for me..
Sep 8th, 2008
Kevin Buchanan
I doubt that every single FWPD and FWFD member agrees.
Sep 9th, 2008
VinnyV
True, Kevin.
Let’s make a very clear distinction here: Are FW firefighters and police officers really riled up against Wendy or are the FW firefighter / police officer local union’s management really behind this?
There is a difference, y’know.
If some FWPD and FWFD personnel have a grievance it should certainly be heard, but I have no sympathy for their unions which constantly seek more money, more political influence, and more power. The union management is morally bankrupt and has long ago stopped making their people the MAIN focus of their existence which is totally inexcusable and completely infuriating. I would not be surprised in the least to see pictures of Brimer playing golf with union leaders.
Sep 10th, 2008
Jim Wilson
An earlier post, very well written Cozette, suggested our 2-party system is all but broken. That our representatives spend too much energy, and too much time making sure any agenda is a Republican or Democrat policy/idea. This is absolutely true!
That our elected representatives are supposed to “fly by the party line” is hogwash. That we can’t pass obviously good legislation due to long-term battles between one party or another has for too long existed in Washington; now this same dogma has spread across the country; it stifles creativity and stagnates progress.
I wouldn’t hesitate to vote for any viable Indepentant canidate (who was not well left or well right) but, our current system is so clamped down those citizens have nearly zero chance. Change, and by change I don’t mean laws, legislation, or policy- but change in how our representatives work together is the answer. They must toss away their party first attitudes and establish country first priorities. Everyone of us knows great things can be accomplished together- but that is quickly lost in the Democrat v. Republican attitudes of entrenched representatives.
How do we accomplish/change the above? I’ve no firm fix there, just thoughts-
– reduced or established term limits is one way. Stop creating an “old guard.”
– clean house of the “old guard” who “owe ” to many, and are too entrenched.
– look for the representative, not the party canidate.
** sadly, those who can not get elected without the “party” then “owe” the party.
Local, State, and Federal representatives hold offices as a service to the people. We should thank them for that service, but hold them accountable; not accountable for not cheating on their wives, or the actions of their children, but accountable for actually accomplishing good for the people. If a company’s board of directors accomplished as little as the Texas Legisative Session did last year- no doubt they’d all be gone so why do we allow those same representatives into Austin again this year?.
As for Davis v. Brimer; While one is a Repulican and the other a Democrat I don’t much care- I won’t be voting a straight party line ticket. One seems to be entrenched and well setup in Austin; however, I need someone more in touch with where I live- and that’s not in Austin.
Sep 11th, 2008
cozette
Thanks Pete and Jim:
Again this election looks like a job for a Moderate.
I suggest that polarization of the Ds and the Rs is the culprit here.
When the alternatives are ‘us’ or ‘them’, it is difficult to enter into a meaningful dialog about the issues.
A Moderate is one who can see and appreciate both sides of an issue. A Moderate understands nuance and works for a balance.
The Doctrinaires on either pole have problems with nuance. They often misread the Moderate as someone who holds several positions on a topic. Even the use of the word ‘nuance’ is regarded as ‘elitist’ by some.
My position is to the right of Mario Salvio’s Free Speech Movement and to the left of the Orange County Chapter of the John Birch Society. Over the years I have learned that a strong union solves some labor problems and creates others. A ‘free’ market, likewise, solves some business problems and creates others. [On this latter point, anyone who thinks it is possible for the United States to create a 'free' market in energy really doesn't understand the economic and political forces involved.]
Note that my examples on the left and right are Doctrinaire, but only borderline Radical. As a Moderate, I can appreciate and respect the views of the Free Speech Movement and the John Birch Society of both groups and find areas of agreement with both. With both groups, however, my areas of disagreement are significant.
You have to get to folks like the Weather Underground and the NeoNazis to find the true Radicals. These are the folks that include violence in their tool-kit. I’ll pass on that on either side of the spectrum.
And finally, while I agree that we voters must make up our own minds, I don’t agree that the stature of our political leaders amongst our allies, or even our potential enemies, should be totally disregarded.
It’s a factor.
There’s that nuance again.
Sep 11th, 2008
ears1foru
Jim being well set up in Austin helps Fort Worth not hurts. Brimer carried the bill that will allow the super bowl to be played in Arlington. I am not dumb enough to buy Jerry Jone’s crazy tickets but I do know what cash that will bring to the metroplex. He helped fund UT Arlington and UNT and passed the bill to cut emissions from the plants in Midlothian. Wendy screams about kids with allergies…Brimer is endorsed by every Physician group. He needs to be in touch…how about every mayors endorsement. Ask Wendy to provide a list of who her company did title work for while on Council and you might see just what a conflict of interest might be. And for goodness sakes don’t ask Bernie who is a paid campaign staffer about issues, he has a conflict of interest every payday.
Sep 11th, 2008
Jim Wilson
EARS1FORU,
Thanks for the additional information on Senator Brimer.
I do not think anyone well “setup” or established in Austin is automatically bad. Nor do I make my voting habits based on one person (Bernie); however, a long-term incumbent Republican in Texas who is in a neck-n-neck race with a former city counil woman of the Democratic Party speaks volumes. That should be the easiest race the Republicans have ever seen- why isn’t it? Perhaps those Mr. Brimer represents are either unaware of him, or unhappy with him- either way, not good. As for Bernie, like any other two people, I don’t agree with all of Bernie’s positions, nor do I look to him for how to fill out my election form; however, while he is now paid by the Davis campaign I do have faith in Bernie’s ethics and character- he’d not be there if he didn’t believe in what he was doing. Furthermore, like anyone in either campaign office, I’m glad to see him involved.
Politics are a difficult topic. I suggest we all have specific issues most important to ourselves, those issues should help us focus on differing canidates. My hope however, is that we focus on those who can work for the good of all- not their party. Regardless of our political affiliation and choices for representatives, I’m sure we all know more needs to be accomplished and less between-party bickering most occur.
Sep 12th, 2008
Pete Wann
Very well put, Jim.
I think it’s clear that Davis is hardly your “typical” Democrat, at least in the way that they’re defined by Republicans these days.
She worked hard to provide tax incentives to bring businesses to town (a move that kind of blew up in her face, honestly, in the case of Cabela’s), and when is the last time you heard about a Democratic Party candidate who was so vehemently opposed by a government employee union?
Also, I think Bernie has done a great job of staying out of these discussions. He is aware of how it’ll look if he participates in any way besides just stating Davis’ positions on issues that come up. Additionally, we have agreed as a group that until the campaign is over, he will continue to be a non-participant in discussions on specific races, particularly this one.
Sep 12th, 2008
ears1foru
Well I am waiting for you guys to print Angle’s reponse to the fact that Kim Brimer received the endorsement of evry mayor in Senate District 10. Every past Mayor that is still alive and living in Fort Worth, except Barr. Of course before he gets too much praise remember he’s on Chesapeaks payroll. (Kind of a conflict for you to say how smart he is on one issue and bad on another isn’t it.) So lets keep count, all mayors and the largest city employee groups (Police and Firefighters), sounds to me like Wendy is the one out of touch.
Sep 17th, 2008
Eastsider
Ears1foru – there are more people (who aren’t Mayors) than Mayors in Senate Dist. 10. Last I heard the winner is the one who gets the most votes.
Sep 18th, 2008
ears1foru
I was responding to the statements that Brimer was out of touch. Those are the folks who hear from citizens and voters everyday. Wendy released her own list too, three current council members, who represent minority districts; one democratic county commissioner, one democratic constable, one democratic state representative (out of three) and a former democratic congressman who lives in Washington DC. Wow thats sad.
Sep 18th, 2008
Kevin Buchanan
Strange logic – a candidate not being endorsed by some mayors and a couple of city employee unions means they’re “out of touch” with the people.
The sheer volume of Wendy Davis signs sprouting up in yards lately seems to me to be a pretty good indicator that Wendy is hardly “out of touch” with the citizenry.
Sep 18th, 2008
ears1foru
Kevin, please take a drive somewhere that is not in Wendy’s old district. Like midcities, northern Tarrant County, Southwest Fort Worth and Arlington. You need to get out more.
Sep 18th, 2008
chris
Ears1foru, you seem to be saying that Wendy’s support isn’t nearly so visible outside SD10. I wonder why that is…
Sep 18th, 2008
ears1foru
That is Senate District 10 It runs from Benbrook to Arlington up thru midcities to Southlake.. That’s the list of Mayors that support him.
Sep 18th, 2008
chris
SD10 gerrymanders through parts of the mid cities and Arlington, but the bulk of the district is in Fort Worth proper. North Fort Worth is almost entirely SD12, as are most of North Richland Hills and the mid cities. The eastern half of Arlington is in SD9.
So, if I were wanting to gauge the support of a candidate in SD10 by yard signs, I’d be looking in FW south of I-30 first and foremost…
Sep 18th, 2008
Foat Wuth, I Luv Yew!
Chris, I have to differ with your characterization of the district. Looking at yard signs south of thirty is helpful, but doesn’t give you more than a Potempkin picture of how she’s going to fare.
I actually ran in SD10 (not seriously, or well). I found that the bulk of the Fort Worth votes in that district population-wise are the north side, southwest, and southeast side. It neatly leaves off the part of the “west side” that’s north of 20 (Como, Ridglea, also River Crest), more or less. However, there are a whole lotta votes in Arlington, whole lotta votes in Colleyville, and a whole lotta votes in the Mid Cities. You have a huge voting block in Arlington, SW Fort Worth, and the mid cities that’s pure straight ticket Republican. They also get out and vote.
North side turnout is consistently horrible, and its hard to mobilize Poly/Stop Six etc. fully. Maybe that’s going to change this year, but not enough to swing.
With the exception of Ryan Place, etc., we’re not talking about massive name recognition for Wendy, and certainly not with people outside of Fort Worth.
I’m afraid that the coattails of the Obama movement will not stretch far enough to win over the Kennedale Area Womens League or whatever cross over votes she needs to get above the 39.6% Democratic base in the district.
In the interest of disclosure I have to admit, I support Kim Brimer unabashedly, but that has nothing to do with the realities of the district. I think he’s a heck of a guy and has done a lot for this city and the state. I think Wendy wouldn’t do half the job and has some character issues. This is my opinion, however, and like most, worth exactly what was paid to hear it.
Sep 18th, 2008
ears1foru
Hey Fort Wuth…Wendy has no character issues …or maybe you ought to head over to Fred Barons $250 to $10,000 fundraiser for her on October 16th in Dallas. If you wonder if thats the same Freb Baron who paid off Edwards mistress to keep quiet, yes it is one and the same. If you sleep with dogs you get up with fleas.
Sep 18th, 2008
Foat Wouth, I Luv Yew!
Ears-
I am so glad to hear that Fred has finally gotten on her bandwagon. It just sort of proves my point. Jeebus. When you’ve got to get Fred Baron to haul his slime rocks out just so that all the lizards can lick them in order for you to pay Tyson his vig, you’ve reached a point where all I can say is, “You stay classy!” I would like to go to that event, however, and see if maybe I can hold my hand up and say, “I am looking to finance a questionable project with city money. I also need a TIF and have a lot of title work. Anyone? Anyone? Bueller? Davis?”
Sep 18th, 2008
VinnyV
Why are people so hung up on endorsements these days?
Do you know what it means when a politician or some other jerk-weed “endorses” another candidate? It means THAT ONE person wants that candidate to be in power for some reason. It rarely has anything to do with whether or not the candidate is the best person to represent ALL of us.
I have more respect for candidates running against incumbents that are solely endorsed by “common” people and as Kevin said, it appears Wendy is well preferred by the people. If a person is so stupid to need the opinion of some crooked-ass union rep. or dipstick mayor in lieu of their own research or judgment, then maybe they should just sit every election out since they are obviously prey to any political gimmick.
Brimer is a rubber-stamp career politician. End his useless career now. He has had his share of flea’s as well – don’t be a jackass and pretend your boy wasn’t scratching when he was being crooked Jack Abramoff / Ralph Reed’s go-to boy AND when he participated in crooked Tom Delay’s illegal, immoral, and unethical 2003 gerrymandering.
If you are going to dig up dirt, then be sensible enough to call out your own political candidate’s dubious past.
The American Revolution gave us freedom. Appreciate it.
Democracy gives you choices. Evaluate them.
God gave you a brain. Use it.
Sep 19th, 2008
ears1foru
Vinnie boy I must have hit a nerve. Bimers fleas, to argue that, you bring up DC lobby guys who have never set foot to my knowledge in Texas. Delays redistricting, if you knew anything you would know House members draw House plans, Senate members the Senate. Brimer was in the House then, a Chairman under Democratic Speaker Laney and opposed to Craddick. The 10th District was drawn to pair Sen. Moncrief with Sen. Nelson. She moved, then Sen. Harris moved leaving an open seat that Brimer was elected to. He had nothing to do with those lines. It appears in this case, I can explain it to you, I just can’t understand it for you.
Finally, endorsements in campaigns are important, thats why every candidate seeks them. Thats why they respond to questionares, go to organizations candidate screenings etc. meet with editorial boards. So far its Brimer with everyone but a few current and former Democratic office holders and not all of those. Brimer wins 54-56%.
Sep 19th, 2008
Jonestein
To heck with both of them, vote Libertarian, vote for Richard Cross.
Sep 19th, 2008
Foat Wuth, I Luv Yew!
Ears-
That’s pretty much what I was thinking. I see him as basically losing four points off of his historic sixty percent wins. He beat Hal Ray 60/40, me 60/40, and I think that when its all said and done, will beat Wendycakes 55/45/
As far as endorsements are concerned, Moncrief didn’t gain anything politically by coming out and casting his vote one way or the other. He’s a very shrewd politician, and shrewd politicians don’t make endorsements they don’t have to make unless they feel that there’s a really compelling reason, especially when the person they’re endorsing doesn’t need their impramata to win. I’d see that endorsement, therefore, as a real rebuke of one candidate rather than a singing laud of another.
What the heck does Ralph Reed have to do with anything?
VinnyV, if you have a problem with anyone in the state house, you ought to take a drive out to Weatherford and vent your anger on Phil King. He’ll be happy to listen to you!
As far as Wendy not being a career politician, what else has she been? And no, figureheading her ex husband’s title company while she was on the City Council does not count.
Meanwhile, I’m trying to figure out why I’m represented by a lady from Lewisville all the way over here in Fort Worth.
Sep 19th, 2008
Jim Wilson
Endorsements? Who cares?
Are they important- darn right they are, but only because we the voters make them so.
Do they mean anything- not one thing, zip, nada, nothing (maybe less).
Yard Signs? Again, who really cares?
I’ve got one, but I don’t expect it to influence a single person, nor should it!
Party Affiliation? Here’s one given too much hype- where’s Party in-fighting got us lately?
Vote for your representative- not for a Party.
Thus, Mayor’s Endorsements, Yard Signs, Political Party, they’re all worthless side information.
Each just clouds the view- behind it all, select he or she that best represents YOU!
Do your research, contact their office, pick your hot topic and ask!
I strongly recommend we all:
A) VOTE!!! That’s not just your right- it is your responsiblity.
B) Look past the fog. Ignore Endorsements, ignore Yard -Signs, and ignore Party.
C) Ask about your important Agenda Items and vote based on that alone.
Sep 22nd, 2008
John MacFarlane
I love Wendy’s new mailer about Kim “the thief, cheat, liar” Brimer. And it’s all backed up by publications such as the S-T, Texas Monthly and an actual Senate Bill.
Sep 26th, 2008
ears1foru
Hope she got this one right versus her last release that was a total lie. Thief ,Cheat and Liar sounds like Fred Baron, paying off John Edwards mistress….now he’s host a Davis fundraiser.
Sep 26th, 2008
Jim
Ms. Davis joined a local bicycle club’s regularly scheduled “Breakfast Ride” this last Saturday. There was no political venue for a speach, no option to pass out pamphlets or buttons, just a recreational ride to a local eatery for breakfast. Just an opportunity for those she seeks to represent to ride along, ask some questions and get person-to-person responses. Sure there was a confirmation that Ms Davis strongly supports a “safe passing law” for cyclists in Texas but, more importantly there was the simple connection between people.
In the many years her opponent has been the representative for District 10 I’ve never seen him in person in our community- heck I’m not certain I could recognize him… somehow that doesn’t seem appropriate. I very much appreciated the personal involvement and interest Ms. Davis showed to those she seeks to represent. My emphasis on any representative- they must seek to represent us, not just need our vote.
Sep 28th, 2008
Katy Baker
As I follow all the talk about this race, no one seems to mention that Wendy Dindy Davis’ title work involved searches for the big gas companies. Her campaign treasurer, Brandi “I Do What I Want On Camp Bowie” O’Quinn is in trouble with the city of Fort Worth because of some strange financial tactics on book keeping for that public improvment district and Wendy herself was in trouble with the city secretary because she filed incomplete campaign finance reports and ignored the request to revise them. If you want someone who will smile to your face, shake your hand and then screw you behind your back, vote Wendy. She was involved in many of financial problems the city now faces and still denies it. She spent lots of money on bike racks downtown that are rarely used – so where the heck are all of you bike people parking when you ride to work? If you want your tax dollars wasted on fu-fu fancy b.s., vote Wendy. BTW – Mayor Mike encouraged her to run for this office just to get her off the council. He’s delighted to be rid of her.
Oct 1st, 2008
Jim Wilson
Sadly the city of Fort Worth (FW) apparently had no one on staff back then with real bicycle background or knowledge. Fort Worth did indeed design and install “Bike Stands” around the downtown area. They do look nice, but yes, they are very limited in their usability.
That said, my review years later showed city staff brought forward the idea of promoting bicycles downtown, staff developed and recommended these stands, and a majority of the FW City Council approved the funding. Fortunately, today there is an individual with urban bicycle knowledge on FW’s City Staff, and I doubt that’s by accident.
Those bike racks were recommended by a well-meaning city staff; they were approved and funded by well-meaning city council members; they just didn’t have the necessary background nor ask the right people before implementation.
This is similar to retail outlets which mean well and install bike racks in the back corner of lots, over in the trees, and isolated from everything else. Just like motor-vehicle drivers who don’t wish to park there automobile in the back dark corner of the lot- neither do bicyclists. One must acquire the opinion of those who you wish to help before you provide that help.
Regarding Ms Davis v. Mr Brimer on the topic of bicycles; well, one supports a safe passing law for bicyclists, the other not only opposed it but got his name on the ammendment that killed it (Brimer Ammendment). No real contest there. Of course there are other issues, pick your topic, ask them, and decide on a representative for yourself- but please, vote!
Oct 1st, 2008
Eastsider
At least Wendy Davis was thinking ahead and those bike racks will come in handy when we go into this deep depression, can’t afford gas and we’re all on our bikes! Or better yet, when we all progress in our thinking and behaviors to a healthier and smarter way of getting our fat butts around.
Oct 1st, 2008
Kevin Buchanan
Bike racks are hardly “fu fu fancy bs” as our friend Ms. Baker up there calls them (believe it or not, the Almighty Car shouldn’t always take priority over everything else). I use the racks quite a bit, but I agree with Jim – they’re limited in their usability. A case of looks topping functionality, unfortunately. Simple inverted U racks would have been better.
I use the racks around the Near Southside even more. In fact, we could use more of them down there, as anybody who has looked for a spot outside Spiral Diner on a busy evening can attest.
Oct 1st, 2008
Reply to “Discuss: Wendy Davis vs. Kim Brimer”
By posting your comment, you agree to abide by the terms of the West and Clear comment policy.