Money Talks Rhetoric Walks In Palm Springs

The older one gets, the least surprised you are supposed to be. But today's report on campaign donation has me reeling. The fact that recipients of a single donor's largesse are supposedly "Progressivse" makes this even worse.

Mayoral candidate Ginny Foat has received $91,000 dollars in goods and services from one man, Harold Matzner. That made me imitate Linda Blair even before Halloween. Now this does include goods and services but somehow I guess my invite on election night to Spencer's will somehow get lost in the mail.  That anyone will wind up spending close to 300 grand as Ms.Foat will running for Mayor in Palm Springs is just absurd.

Geoff Kors has already raised 232 grand running for council. For council. Stunning.

Harold Matzner has given 176 grand in sum total to 4 different candidates.

I want to make this clear. I do not attribute any nefarious motives to either the benefactor or recipients of this money. Instead I want to know why I hear a chorus of crickets from the normally loud political players in Palm Springs on this topic? Remember this is occurring in a town where some quarters went into near hysteria over the taking down of a Marilyn Monroe statue, yet huge cash donations and nary a peep.

One of the hallmarks of the Progressive Movement so many give lip service here in Palm Springs is strong opposition to Citizens United and the witches brew that unleashed. Yet here, no mention of it regarding a local election by the so-called local progressives. Right now we have an IMBY not a NIMBY occurring here.

That extends to the local media as well. Where is the Desert Sun editorial on this? If they are in favor of no campaign finance limits, fine. But say something!! Jesse Marx has done a great job laying out all the facts.

What will really crack me up is when Chad Mayes (R-Yucca Valley) does the same dodgy fundraising in next year's race against Greg Rodriguez for Assembly, many of the self-muted now will suddenly find their voice.

These are dark yet highly lucrative days for Palm Springs. At least for the quiet ones.

Steve Kelly can be reached at skelly@rrbroadcaasting.com