Sometimes, I really hate politics. The underhanded nature of things, the back room deals, the secret support of questionable candidates, the cover-ups, and the big-mouthed blathering of pundits (myself included) make the process a messy, disgusting aspect of American life but I can't seem to back away from it. Maybe it is just a part of who I am, or maybe it's my innate desire to stir things up that keep me interested and as someone who likes history, it's fun to watch it repeat itself. While a free electorate is what our forefathers intended, it's kind of become something altogether different, hasn't it? It's just a big pile of rhetorical goo and we have to choose between candidates whom we think will do the least amount of damage rather than the most good for the country.
On a local level, we have a battle for County Sheriff that looks pretty interesting, but more than likely, it will turn out to be a tempest in a teapot. The incumbent Sheriff, John Whetsel, is looking to win re-election with ease primarily because his opponent hasn't defined himself or worked to change the impressions of days past. Mike Christian is a State Rep who was embroiled in the controversy that saw former Representative Randy Terrill spend time behind bars. Christian was rumored to have testified against Terrill to save his own hiney, and that's what the vast majority of the public can remember about him. He doesn't have any substantial legislation that changed lives in Oklahoma, he hasn't cured cancer, and he has failed to get his message out. Mike is a good guy, but his consultants haven't done him any favors.
Another race is that of the County Clerk. Carolyn Caudill was defeated in the Republican primary by David Hooten; a man best known for his musical abilities and meat sauces available in many area grocery stores. He will face Libertarian Chris Powell who hasn't really put forth too much effort in the campaign. Hooten will win this one in a walk and then he and his consultant Lance Cargill (yes, that Lance) will find themselves in strange territory in Oklahoma County government. But then again, the voters could surprise us all and vote for Powell. Probably not, but maybe.
On a personal note, if y'all are available, stop by Bourbon Street Saturday night and listen to the reorganized Signal 8 Band. We kick off the party at 9pm and play until the bartender throws us out or tells us to shut up. Katie, Cal, Merv, and myself invite you to take a break from politics, a break from the madness that is every day life and slip away to music mayhem with us. We'll be playing some of your favorite classic rock tunes as well as a couple originals that Katie wrote herself. In other words, you will have a blast and we hope to see you there.
See you soon!
Ron "Gorilla" Black