The lack of a serious challenger to Mayor Francis Slay in the March 8 Democratic primary is a lost opportunity for the city of St. Louis and its African-American community in particular. Despite the sometimes blistering rhetoric assailing Slay and his stewardship, his opponents have failed to produce a viable candidate with broad African-American support who could mount a credible campaign that raises serious questions about the incumbent mayor and his policies. Rather, we get the usual protests about African-American exclusion in a city with a more than 50 percent African-American population and a mayoral race that is little more than a farce.
After years of these legitimate, but largely unproductive, complaints about being denied what is rightfully ours, we still seem unable to accept the fact that the reasons for our disenfranchisement include n but go beyond n racism. We will have to do better than simply claim entitlement and accept greater responsibility for our political weakness if we are to make substantive progress in the future.
We need to plan and organize if we want a greater share of political power. Little political power will be given without a demand that can’t be ignored. In 2005, our future depends very much on what we do ourselves, not just what is done to us. Only a hopeless supplicant refuses to take responsibility for themselves and their community.
Nevertheless, any mayoral candidate who hopes to be an effective leader does need to reach out to all constituencies in all areas of the city.
Darlene Green for comptroller
Darlene Green has earned her unopposed bid to be reelected comptroller of the city of St. Louis because of her sound performance as the city’s chief financial officer. Moreover, she was largely responsible for turning a mere defeat of Propositions A, B, C and D to change the city’s government structure into overwhelming rejection. She has shown ability to leverage her political popularity with voters into influence of public policy. She deserves to be reelected on her merits. Although she has no primary opponent, be certain to cast your vote for DARLENE GREEN next Tuesday, March 8.
Troupe for 1st Ward alderman
In the city’s 1st Ward, voters have a clear choice. The incumbent, Ald. Irene Smith, chose to run for mayor rather than seek reelection to her aldermanic seat. The contest to replace her is between two well-known political leaders, Charles Quincy Troupe and Sharon Tyus, and perennial candidate and civil rights activist Cleo Willis.
A veteran former state representative, Troupe has had a long, productive career as an elected public official. He has served his union’s senior leadership as chairman of Bi-State/Metro Committee on social equality. Troupe has been an unwavering advocate for social justice and economic development for his community. In addition to his principled activism, he has shown the ability to guide and implement major improvements for his varied constituents. His record is a testimonial to his dedication, political courage and willingness to take on difficult challenges. His vast experience as a legislator and labor and political leader make him an ideal choice to represent the 1st Ward and advance its interests.
Former Ald. Sharon Tyus is not without ability and strength, but her effectiveness is undermined by her penchant for dividing those who need to be able to work together for the greater good of the North Side.
The 1st Ward is fortunate that Troupe wants to serve as their alderman and has pledged to serve out his term after he is elected. We have not always agreed with Troupe, but we have always respected him and his tireless work on behalf of those who are often poorly represented.
Vote for proven, trustworthy, independent leadership. Vote CHARLES QUINCY TROUPE for alderman of the 1st Ward.
No recall of Peggy Ryan
The recall vote on the primary ballot in the 4th Ward is the latest example of an unwarranted use of this initiative. Rather than using a recall vote to hold a candidate accountable for serious malfeasance or dereliction of responsibility, it is being used as a way to settle old political scores. The needs of the 4th Ward are too great, and civic energy should be used instead to create more consensus about how to bring greater progress to the ward. Vote NO to reject the recall of PEGGY RYAN.