Our very own city councilman, Michael Brownrigg, has put out word that he will run for Jerry Hill's seat in 2020. Jerry is termed out so the chance to run for an open seat has Michael's attention–probably along with our current Assemblyman, Kevin Mullin of the South City Mullin clan. I have always believed in getting a head-start on these sorts of efforts and Michael has given himself plenty of runway to raise money and garner endorsements. His opening foray of a platform reads
The issues I look forward to discussing with SD13 residents in the months ahead revolve around how we keep “the promise that is California.” I was born and raised on the Peninsula and am raising my family here, as you know. I believe our region and the state as a whole are beacons for many: we show the country and the world what a just, inclusive and prosperous American community looks like. But some of the promises we grew up with are fraying, whether it is the promise of affordable housing options, good public schools, accessible open space, sustainable State finances, or decent public transportation options. Those issues need to be addressed so we don’t see all that we have worked for crumble beneath us.
I could (and have) quibbled with the idea that there is a "promise" of affordable housing–not sure who or where that promise was made, but it's sort of a litmus test for winning elections in the Bay Area right now. I just hope higher aspirations aren't part of the decision to abandon our city parking lot for "affordable housing" that discriminates against those who don't quite make the cut to get in.
If the choice does come down to Mullin vs. Brownrigg I think that is an easy decision based on Michael's skills, approachable nature and experience. Mullin is known for a wide variety of bad ideas that we can get into if he throws his hat in the ring. We'll see who else is attracted to that open seat and a chance to skip straight to the State Senate.
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