Ricky Wright is a popular and well known figure locally who already attracted a small buzz. He did an outstanding job at the high school which had experienced some racial violence before he came in as the principal.
His major challenge is to see whether he can break through the money and power machine that is behind Ginny Foat. Actually that is the challenge for all of the mayoral candidates. How do they break through? I think it will take a Herculean effort considering that hotel associations, power brokers and many in the LGBT community are behind Ms. Foat with both moral support and cash.
In actuality, Ms. Foat is running as a third term of current Mayor Steve Pougnet. Pougnet remains a popular figure in many corners of the city despite his recent travails. And Ms. Foat who has promised to run for only one term, will be able to say that she wants to finish the revitalization of Palm Springs.
Ricky Wright has a ton of charisma and deep roots in the community. It will be impossible for him to be attacked as a carpetbagger or someone who "needs to pay his dues." But in this case charisma better equal cash or Mr. Wright may not get a passing grade.
Steve Kelly can be heard 4 to 6p PDT Monday thru Friday on 1450 KPTR or on I Heart Radio
Excellent blog! Thank you.
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