Conventionality Big Winner In 2017 Palm Springs Council Race

Palm Springs prides itself on being on the cutting edge. Its leaders constantly tout it as a world-class getaway and an "International Brand". So why is it having such a humdrum city council election? Without disparaging any of the candidates, I think I can provide the answer.

Years ago, council candidates either came up from the commission system or were picked by the "Good Old Boys Network." (This network consisted of people such as the late Milt Jones and Joe Garcia. They were longtime business and civic leaders.) Now candidates still come from the commission systems but in Palm Springs, local and state LGTBQ organizations are filling the role of the "Good Old Boys"

Looking at the field this year, there can be no doubt that both Lisa Middleton and Christy Gilbert Holstege are the establishment candidates. The 4 others, known in the community by varying degrees have an uphill fight. The smart money at this point has to be on Middleton and Holstege who will strong organizational effort behind them.

Now this being Palm Springs, there has to be a certain amount of drama and well, just plain silliness in a council election. Charges of misogyny, Trumpism and even Neo-Nazism have flown on social media. It is both complementary and horrifying at the same time that citizens can get so passionate about a local council election.

As someone who has interviewed candidates, moderated forums and covered these elections since 2000, I can honestly say that this is a rather tame affair. There are no drag queens, frauds or candidates driving campaign hearses this time. The color of this election is beige rather than paisley. And maybe a little conventionality is a good thing.

Steve Kelly hosts The Coachella Valley Report Saturday at noon on 1450 KCOD. He can be reached at sverickr@yahoo.com