Let's face it: Chicago is corrupt and rotten. Let's also get this out into the open: Chicagoans like it that way. Most Chicagoans have either been cowed into believing that Dickhead Daley is the only man who can run the city, or who have accepted the belief that a kleptocracy is the only way to run Chicago. Any scandal that erupts in this town is immediately dismissed (and defended) as being "the Chicago way of doing things."
Chicago is one of those cities who embrace negativity with the same enthusiasm other, more mentally balanced humans embrace positivity. Take sports teams. The Chicago Cubs have attained practically a legendary status because they *don't* win. When the team lost 95 games last year, many fans were disappointed that they would strive for such mediocrity. The real Chicago Cubs would have lost at least a hundred games. At the same time, it boggles my mind how the Chicago Bulls' mind-blowing NBA dynasty of the 1990s has become more a footnote in Chicago sports history rather than a major point of civic pride. It's as if the championship seasons have been embraced by everyone in America except Chicago. Let's face it: Chicago prefers losers to winners when it comes to sports and politics.
For the last few days, my apartment has been barraged with a combination of phone calls and junk mail, telling me to reelect Dickhead Daley. No, no, a million times no. I'm not sure who I'm voting for, but not for the most corrupt, disgusting ball of phlegm to run Chicago since his old man dropped dead. I may vote for another candidate, or I might write-in my wife, who is completely wonderful and healthier for the city than the Dickhead. But I'm never voting for that scumbag or his aldermen sycophants. And if you live in Chicago, I'd recommend you do the same. It's about time we had some winners running the city.
I disagree with your assessment of Chicagoans. If anything, they are very aware of the corruption of Chicago politics and they're known for being very good at spotting bullshit. Cowed? Doubt it. I think historically it's been more a case of knowing what you're getting and being more comfortable with the devil you know. We know this administration is corrupt, but it's not murderous or anything. Even so there are a LOT of Chicagoans who are tired of the antics this time around.
Also you have to admit that such Teflonability is almost admirable. How is it that he never wears Da Jacket? He comes across as a bit inarticulate, but he ain't dumb. Unless you mean dumb like a fox.
I've met Da Mayor because I went to school with his kids. I never got the impression of Evil Overlord from him. Rather, I think he's just doing things the way he was taught... and then going to Mass.
Posted by: Amy | 23 February 2007 at 11:34 PM