Oh, Baltimore

[jmc_bks]

The jury found Mayor Dixon guilt of one count of embezzling gift cards. It was only one count of four, I believe, but any guilty verdict by a Baltimore jury is remarkable. I'm wondering what will happen next? Assuming it isn't overturned on appeal, I think she should not be able to remain mayor.

I'll admit, though, to being biased. Dixon's public persona as mayor makes me cringe, with the horrendous grammar and non sequitors and inability to speak or answer questions without a script. Except to spout platitudes, of course.

Explain to me again why city tax payers should pay for a trip to Egypt for her? Or for her defense counsel?

Comments

[(Anonymous)]

Man, I read about that case yesterday and my first thought was that your mayor is even lower than my ex-governor. Stealing gift cards given to the poor? It's just jaw-dropping. If it gets a ton of national press (though it looks like it hasn't and won't, not to the insane levels I mean), you'll experience what I did with Blago: extreme annoyance at everyone WHO DOESN'T EVEN LIVE IN YOUR STATE holding forth on what should/shouldn't happen, legally, politically, and socially. Oh, and the constant "What's wrong with you people that you voted this despicable politician into office?" It gets old quick.

~Beth

[jmc-bks.livejournal.com]

Beth,

Here's the thing people need to understand about Baltimore: the city has significant race issues and financial problems that stem from (among other things) middle class urban flight in the 60s and the geographic limitations imposed by the Maryland Constitution. Unlike other cities, Baltimore cannot grow or annex additional land in the surrounding area to increase its tax base and its population, which are both shrinking. (Don't get me started on the growth of JHU and its tax exempt status as it eats up more land in the city.)

Add that to the insular nature of the neighborhoods, and you get unchanging politics and a political culture in city hall of "who do you know", IMO. Mayoral and city council elections are a joke, predetermined by party, as in, the real vote is the Democratic primary rather than the general election.

My problem isn't the dollar amount, although it is petty and stupid and a mean thing to do, stealing from already poor people. It's the theft by use of her public office. And, frankly, in my opinion, public officials convicted while in office should not be able to keep their offices.

/steps off soapbox/