Critically Speaking: Democrats are split on Proposition 36
But the divisive measure that could increase penalties for retail theft and drug charges will be decided by voters in November.
If you’ve ever noticed when you vote for offices in Long Beach there is never (D) or an (R) next to a candidate's name. On a few occasions when I’ve tried to ask questions of elected officials about their political ties I’ve been kindly reminded that they hold “non-partisan” positions.
Anyone who’s lived here long enough to go through an election cycle would question the truth in that. Mailboxes during election years often resemble a Thanksgiving turkey, but instead of cranberries and breadcrumbs spilling out of it, it’s endorsements from the local Democratic or Republican groups.
The “non-partisan” positions in Long Beach have become increasingly partisan. Note the cancelation of this week’s City Council meeting smack dab in the middle of the budget season because of a lack of quorum as some council members, as well as Mayor Rex Richardson, were in Chicago for the Democratic National Convention.
