| Oakley Gave Us Something to Vote Against |
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| by Rufus Shaw | Sun, Jun 10, 2007, 11:42 PM |
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I am sure that when Ed Oakley decided to run negative ads depicting Tom Leppert as an untrustworthy corporate villain, he never intended for the furor generated by the ads to blow back on him. But that is exactly what has happened. Mr. Oakley’s ads have opened up a flood gate of negativity that is now directed at his gay lifestyle. What was once a peaceful and somewhat dull campaign has morphed into one of the nasty elections in mayoral history with Mr. Oakley’s campaign furnishing most of the dirt. Unwittingly, Ed Oakley gave Black voters something to vote against and it’s him. I was not shocked when Mayor Pro Tem Don Hill endorsed Tom Leppert. Mr. Hill saw the negative ads. For a man who has so unfairly been mischaracterized by the press in the past, Don Hill could not possibly condone what Ed Oakley was doing. First off, Don Hill did not receive any money or promises from Tom Leppert. Mayor Pro Tem Hill sincerely believes that Tom Leppert is the best person for the job. He has said so publicly. What he has not said publicly is that he had real problems endorsing Ed Oakley as long as the John Price group is handling Mr. Oakley’s Black affairs. Mr. Hill is not alone in shunning Ed Oakley’s campaign because of the presence of John Price, Kathy Neely, and Demetris Sampson in his campaign. A quick look at Ed Oakley’s campaign will show that for a man with southern sector credentials and the endorsement of the Dallas County Democratic Party, very few African-American political leaders have joined Ed Oakley’s campaign. As a matter of fact, when I spoke with State Senator Royce West, who is arguably the most powerful Black Democrat in the county, he said not only was he not endorsing Ed Oakley, he was also upset that the Democratic Party endorsed Mr. Oakley without ever talking to State Senator West. To add more woes to the Oakley campaign, the Super Sunday event held Sunday was a success which many figured will boost Tom Leppert’s numbers in the southern sector because many of the ministers involved in the effort are Leppert supporters. I don’t have the exact numbers but hundreds of Black voters descended on the Oak Cliff Sub-Courthouse. Lynn Flint-Shaw, coordinator of the event was pleased. “We expected a large turn-out because we were able to mobilize over 100 volunteers to help us with this effort.” There is little doubt that the 100 plus volunteers who emailed, phoned, and knocked on doors is one of the largest Black “Get Out The Vote” volunteer efforts in Dallas history. Rev. Freddie Haynes III, of mega church Friendship West, brought the largest contingent of voters. The other 2 voting outlets targeted by the get out the vote organizers, Martin Luther King Recreation Center and Samuel Grand Recreation Center, both had larger turn-outs than in the May election. An informal exit poll showed that 85% of the Black voters at the Oak Cliff Sub-Courthouse voted for Tom Leppert. This does not mean that Tom Leppert is going to get the majority of the Black vote. It only means that he appears to have done well on this Super Sunday. At the beginning of this run off election, I gave Ed Oakley a good chance of being Dallas’ next mayor mainly because Oakley is a savvy campaigner with a good legislative record for the southern sector. But then those negative, blatantly misleading ads started to run. Many of us began to wonder if we really knew Ed Oakley. To make matters worse, the gay bashers got the opening they needed to make Ed Oakley’s lifestyle a campaign issue. Things have gotten so bad South of the Trinity that rumors are circulating suggesting that members of the John Price group are gay and they have been enlisted to spread a radical gay agenda South of the Trinity. Let me be clear: I know nothing about the sexuality of John Price or the members of his group. I have heard the rumors regarding Mr. Price and as far as I am concerned those rumors are no more than urban myths. I believe the John Price group joined the Oakley campaign because the Leppert campaign did not want them. I don’t know anything about the rumors that suggest that the John Price group is with the Oakley campaign to help spread a radical gay agenda South of the Trinity. Ed Oakley can still win this election. And he may very well carry the Black vote. But now, his chances, because of his choices, are significantly slimmer. Meanwhile, because of those bad choices, Ed Oakley’s campaign has given at least some people in the Black community something to vote against. And unfortunately for Ed Oakley, it is him. At least that is how I see it from South of the Trinity.
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Comments (32)
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written by Gehrig M. Saldaña , June 11, 2007 Ed Oakley's campaign actions are directly responsible for the attention the gay issue is receiving in Dallas' mayoral run-off election. Claiming false endorsements, running misleading political ads, taking advantage of your opponent's physical disabilities, along with the assist Oakley received from the Dallas County Democratis Party opened the door to those may factor the gay issue when they vote. I personally do not believe it should matter one way or another. However, a large percentage of Dallas' Hispanic citizens are Catholic, expound mostly conservative family traits and tend to judge one by their individual actions rather than their sexual preference. I believe a majority of Dallas' Hispanic voting block beleive Ed Oakley and company have completely crossed the line of civility caused by their own actions in their campaign. When you have individuals like Roberto Medrano and Adelfa Callejo bringing up credibility and political partisan concerns created by the Ed Oakley campaign, Dallas' Hispanic voters take notice and most likely will vote for the person who they feel will better serve the citizens of Dallas.
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written by Martha Hinkle , June 11, 2007 It's odd to read this because everyone I talk to is voting for Oakley. It seems like all the signs in yards are for Oakley.
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written by Jonathan Green , June 11, 2007 I do not dislike Mr. Oakley for his sexual preference, although I do not condone his lifestyle choice. I did vote for Mr. Oakley because of his affilation with John Wiley Price. In my thinking Mr. Oakley is a puppet for the Price Group, in addition no mention was ever made about the Cotton Bowl, Malcom X and Marburg street which is ridden with drugs and crime, and economic development in South Dallas. Tom did listen and acknowledged an action plan.
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written by Michael Davis , June 11, 2007 85%? If that number is strong that means good news for Leppert.
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written by Mark Drummond , June 11, 2007 Rufus... despite all this politics, how is your health?
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written by David , June 11, 2007 If Leppert honestly received 85% of the African American vote..... I can't even think of what I'll do! Come on, in the general election Oakley won a much greater percentage of the African American vote than Leppert. How could THAT many people switch their minds in such a short time period. Also Oakley has done so much for South Dallas, such as tearing down crime-ridden apartments, and wants to continue that as mayor. The Trinity River project under Ed Oakley will benefit all of Dallas, which is why South Dallas is solidly Oakley while North is truly a battle ground of the two. Oakley will be a Dallas Mayor, while Leppert will abandon the South and especially African Americans.
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written by Michael Davis , June 11, 2007 David, There's no proof that Oakley got a large part of the Black vote. Don Hill got most of it in the general election. Black voters didn't have to change their minds, they just have to vote for one of the two remaining candidates.
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written by David , June 11, 2007 If you look at district information and compare it with who lives there it is obvious that Oakley won a greater percentage of the African American vote than Leppert. It is simple statistics. Take a class. Also, just drive down a prodominatly African Amercian neighborhood. If you look for yard signs (which I know is not the best indication of support but just go with me for a second), you will see many more Oakley signs than Leppert as well.
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written by Michael Davis , June 11, 2007 On signs: Oakley's camp has been stealing signs for weeks. There are hardly any Oakley signs in the prominent Black precincts other than in right-of-ways and a couple of small areas in Oak Cliff. They have also been stealing signs. Not sure what data you're looking at, but I don't look at district info, I look at precincts. Hill won every majority black precinct by a large margin. Most of the remaining Blacks won't vote for Oakley.
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written by Michael Davis , June 11, 2007 And by the way sir, I don't think I need a class when the person's campaign that I co-managed and ran nearly all of these same stats that we're discussing is the only Black candidate not in a run-off...winning with 63% of the vote to his opponents 18%, 14%, and 5%.
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written by Betty Culbreath , June 12, 2007 Lynn Flint Shaw did a wonderful job as well as standing in that heat out side the polls. My thanks to her and her volunteer effort to help the Black Community.
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written by I C Threwit , June 12, 2007 Hmmmmm, DMN sez Leppert 47 - Oakley 45. This must be a Republican website.
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written by Gehrig M. Saldaña , June 12, 2007 Signs don't vote. That said, Dallas' voters are not hoodwinked with the obvious disrespect for Democracy displayed by Ed Oakley campaign operatives who have a habit of: Either covering Leppert signs by placing two Oakley signs within a half inch of Leppert signs or outright stealing Leppert signs and placing Oakley signs exactly where the stolen Leppert signs were posted. Seems like the Oakley campaign has its own interpretation of what Democracy is all about. Equally, Dallas' voters who actually see what Oakley campaign operatives are doing will remember that when they cast their vote.
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written by Michael Davis , June 12, 2007 Speaking of which, tomorrow you will see a mailer that Oakley sent out that continues the partisanship and lies that he said he would stop.
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written by Marti Walker , June 12, 2007 I was born and raised in Dallas, and I am 80 years old. This is not the same city I was born in. It might have been run by white successful men, but they were men who loved Dallas, and wanted the whole city to win. How I wish that those in city politics today felt the same way, instead of worrying about their own turf and power. My mother taught me not to listen to the words people say, but watch their actions and see what they do. Enough said.
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written by Mary Rogers , June 12, 2007 I can't tell you the number Leppert signs I have called into code enforcement. One of the reasons I am not voting for him.
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written by Elsbeth , June 12, 2007 Just reviewed some of the news articles written last month... This one: http://tinyurl.com/yom72q discusses the consultants and the money spent. It appears that Ed Oakley rose to the top of the heap while only spending $4,000 on consulting. Look at the chart. If he can do that without a "top gun," it means he has strong support. Now with his "top gun" Republican strategists (Murphy & Turner), I hope they are aren't hurting him. He seems to do just fine without all the "help."
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written by Dallas Perfect Voter , June 13, 2007 Oakley has done well thanks to the GLBT national fundraising efforts and GLBT grass roots networks from outside of Dallas. He's also gotten signficant $ from Political Action Committees, most noteworthy the Gay & Lesbian Victory Fund in DC. Read Oakley's own financial disclosure statements. Oakley has more $ and resource help coming from outside Dallas than from in it. If $ from outside of Dallas is Oakley's big ace to become Mayor, it's very, very worrisome. Of the City Council members Oakley recently worked with (many who will remain on the Council and some who have left), more of the current Council (returning and new members) are openly endorsing Leppert. That's telling. Given that Oakley has run on the platform of being such an "effective" insider, it begs the big question: Why are so few of those who either have worked with Oakley or who will be on the new Council are supporting or endorsing Oakley? County Commissioner Price of Dallas works with an openly gay large Democrat faction: the County Judge, Sheriff, County Clerk and Constable are all elected officials. County elections are partisan elections.
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written by Vincent Hall , June 14, 2007 As usual, your fixation with John Price and his "political machine" have overarched your intent to deliver decent, relevant, responsible journalism. The real urban legend is that you have any real touchpoints with the black community at all. Your insulated indirect inferences that John may be gay, because he supports Oakley who is gay, will surely make me gay for this response. But the dilemma you will face in that was the same as when you wrote for that smut paper. You can talk all the trash you want, but if you can't back it with proof you have to dispose of it. Ever since I saw you more than 30 years on the "Midnight Special" touting your book, I have admired your substance and grit. But you have proven that it, along with your character have either evaporated over time or been extinguished by your incessant hatred of John and anyone you deem as a "Price Posse" member. Chill out. You need to Quit Playin'!!And for the record, Oakley will win or be very close. He will also carry 70% or more of the black vote.
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written by Michael Davis , June 14, 2007 Yesterday, Ed Oakley voted to destroy one of Dallas’ natural treasures. I guess money is more important than poor people and the environment. http://dallasprogress.blogspot.com/2007/06/ed-oakley-doesnt-care-about-poor-people.html
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written by Rufus Shaw , June 14, 2007 To Vincent Hall, Who appointed you the arbiter of what decent journalism is?What have you done to make you feel that you could put yourself on such a lofty perch? You convinently did not mention that you have always been one of John Price's Posse members and that is alright with me. But you are nobody to tell me to Quit Playin. Who are you? For years you and others with Mr. Price have attempted to intimidate and berate anyone who dares to question John Price. You are the same fellow that ran up in my face just a few months ago at Friendship West telling me what a fan you are. And now I have no character because I dare to criticize John Price? I did not know you then. And I don't know you now. And if you are able to comprehend what I wrote I think I made it clear that I did not believe or endorse the rumors regarding Mr. Price being gay. But what I really said does not matter to you or any of the others who are zealous for Mr. Price.I think you and others with Mr. Price will find the Black community growing tired of the John Price group. As a result, it is not me you need to worry about but the Black community that you have so arrogantly misled.
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written by Eva Minor- Jones , June 14, 2007 Vincent Hall, I would have stayed out of this but let's go back to the late 80's when your character dipped to a all time low by threatning to hit a woman who stood her ground against a issue that you supported. My ex whom is now deceased call John and told him to put you in check before he acted.... After 30 years, we are now both members of Friendshipwest Baptist Church. I have tried to forget what and who you really are, however I see a leopard does not change it's spots. To misinterpert what Rufus stated makes me ask this question, why do you angrily go after anyone who you think might interrupt your God complex? As a christian we are judge rightly or wrongly by are actions. So when you take your positon in the choir stand remember that I sit in the audience waiting on a apology from 30 years ago. Character or Hypocrisy ?
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written by Vincent Hall , June 14, 2007 Let me kill two mockingbirds with one stone and be finished. I don't generally play around on blogs because this type of foolishnes always results from them. But for the record.... Rufus Shaw has always been someone whom I read and respect because he has always expressed an opinion. Being an advocate of first amendment rights, I hold editorials in high regard, without regard to the stated opinion. I like viewpoints and the personalities that are willing to publicize them. But if the writer and his consort wish to refute what I said, its pretty simple to do. Pull every article, whether entitled The "Real Deal" or whatever moniker is being used on this blog. An abnormal majority of those opinions mention or center on Commissioner Price. The inventory speaks for itself. Inasmuch as some of your views are on point and well positioned in the black community, most can be summarily if not immediately dismissed because of this obvious and oppressive obsession you have with Price and people like me who are labeled by you as part of the "posse." I would ask though that you keep my church and my pastor out of this discussion. As the writer points out I am still a sinner and Friendship West was the only place willing to offer me refuge at my point of greatest need. Surely somewhere Sainthood awaits me!! Oh, and by the way, I have no knowledge of anything done to cause either of you harm, but please forgive me. My pastor requires that I forgive regularly before taking communion. It sounds as if its a practice that could help people such as you who are beset with scars from the past. Signed out 4ever!! Holla! Luya!!
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written by Eva Minor- Jones , June 15, 2007 Vince, Thanks. You proved what I said on yesterday. What I see in you today is Vince from yesterday, someone who tries to intimidate and apparently lost in Vince's world. I have been a member at my church alot longer then you. My point is that in the holiest of places you still offend. I have seen your commentary in the weekly newpaper and I can respect the fact you have been following Rufus since he was a stand-up and a regular on national T.V., another point proven Vince the follower! Please take a little advice keep your articles simple, they are a bit rambling. OH! If you do not remember your history you will always make the same mistakes over again. (FYI) Perhaps if you listen at Dr. Haynes sermons you would understand that forgiveness does not mean forgetfulness ! Holla Back Atcha You
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written by jackjett , June 16, 2007 Read the negative post about Ed Oakley. Dallas right wingers would not cop to only voting for Leppart because he is straight. They hid their homophobia in very clever cover ups....such as. I love him but......(some minor flaw) I think he would be the best for the job .....but I don't like his smile He has far more experience .....but I don't like it that he THOUGHT about voiting for that poor poor Jack Pierce. Ask yourself this question.....and answer to yourself honestly If Tom Leppart were gay as well....which one would you vote for? Jack Jett
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written by 77 Lincoln Tiger , June 17, 2007 To Vincent Hall; You are henpeck and if this was the era of slavery, you would certainly fill the shoes of House Slave. You have never stood on your own, you always put sugar on your lips to smooch on Price's behind. Your articles you write hold no merit or revelance to the African American Community. You and the Price Party talk a good game; making promises of economic development, yet no record can show where African Americans have prosperd from County Contracts. When you are called upon, you so eloquently state" everybody runs to John Wiley Price like he can save Dallas". Rhetoric at its best, you mastered it well from JWP. You, Joyce Ann Brown, and all that mess over there is what it is a mess! Now, what sad, you daddy, JWP stated 'I am your man Downtown". Parkland is a mess, County Contracts for African Americans is a Mess, show your record! Let your record speak. Communities have not grown, you have done nothing to enhance education, you have displayed tokeism and sold out African Americans who gave you a chance, who stood in marches with you protesting injustices that you inturn have now sold yourself out to for a little power. I am just telling like it is! I applaud Mr. Shaw for being real, and real is what you and Price at one time practiced.
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written by 77 Lincoln Tiger , June 17, 2007 Rufus keeping being real! Keep being the Rufus I watched grow up in South Dallas telling it like it is!! Since I have know you, you have kept it real as a advocate for not selling out. Your reward to our community has been awsome! You don't bow to pressure, and keep being real even when Whites entice other African Americans to sue you to try and keep you quiet. Many in the Community would be naive to many candidates and issues if not for you. Stay down and shake them haters off!!!
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written by Linus Spiller , June 17, 2007 ...and to put a nail in this coffin (LOL), Tom Leppert pretty much whupped Ed Oakley's behind (57% to 42%)...the DMN, with its terribly flawed poll (anyone could vote more than once and if you read the accompanying post, you could tell they were done by campaign staffers taken straight from the literature) couldn't have been further from the truth with its "too close to call" prediction. I, for one, am glad Leppert won (whom I supported) for the following reason: 1) Ed Oakley shafted District 6 residents when he was our council rep before ousting Mark Housewright in the 2003 District 3 race and the proverbial chickens "have come home to roost"; 2) Leppert's victory shows that the "stronghold" of prominent Black political operatives in the southern sector is beginning to diminish and we have the opportunity to start electing African Americans who REALLY care about the well-being of our community; and 3) Leppert will be able to plant the "seeds" of economic development necessary to spark growth in the southern sector. Very likely his predecessor will reap the benefits of revitalizing Southern Dallas, but we will all know that Leppert was the catalyst.
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written by jack jett , June 18, 2007 What role did Don Hill play in this? and What role will Don Hill play in this? jack jett Write comment
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