"Misery acquaints a man with strange bedfellows." William Shakespeare
In deference to the Shakespearean quote above, there's no misery like that felt by a rejected politico in search of some vehicle to vent his or her frustration, especially someone who held office for a long stretch and got accustomed to the "comfort zone" of power, control and relevance. The pain of rejection is felt in the pit of your stomach and the inclination is to make your former friends and colleagues feel some of that hurt.
Even before he left office, former Democratic State Senator Eddie Lucio, Jr. (pictured above) sought solace and recognition among Texas Republicans, even endorsing Republican Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick for reelection.
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| Yzaguirre and "Rami"Martinez |
We've seen a similar pattern in town as outgoing Tax Assessor/Collector Tony Yzaguirre, after losing in the Democratic primary, now cavorts around town with Republican challenger for his old office, Jesus "Rami" Martinez, introducing the Republican to his old colleagues as the the odd duo traverses Yzaguirre's old city stomping grounds.
Even former City Commissioner Rick Longoria was said to have been approached by Yzaguirre promoting his new boy toy, Jesus"Rami" Martinez.
If it strikes you as unusual for a 36 year office holder to be openly supporting for office a newbie from the opposing political party, just remember the words of Shakespeare with regard to "misery seeking strange bedfellows," a truism we're seeing at work in our town.
Addendum: Something I forgot to mention is Garcia's promise to do a complete audit of Yzaguirre's office. While at one time Yzaguirre faced 22 charges for bribery and abuse of office, 7 of the charges were dropped while he was acquitted of the remaining 15 charges. Should an audit uncover any "new evidence" of corruption, Yzaguirre can be prosecuted on those counts. That's reason enough to work hard to guarantee the candidate promising an audit of the office is not the one elected.
"Boy toy," Jim, you lost all credibility. Why not put their qualifications side by side? Because Eddie Garcia would lose. I voted based on qualifications; you vote based on whether some con artist puts a D next their name. Why would Tony, a long-time public servant who has served the people well, not endorse the most qualified candidate?
ReplyDeleteIt is noteworthy you say he turned his back on his old party, but not the people. The people matter more than the party
ReplyDeleteThis is a difficult story. The people did not reject Yzaguirre. The people wanted change, a new face, a new opportunity...many voters think that everybody deserves a chance so they gave the chance to Eddie Garcia. People here in the Valley are tough: one chance is given to you but it is your duty to serve the people and to know when it is time to move on. Hopefully, Yzaguirre now concentrates on his personal life and enjoys his retirement.
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