An old dog who’s been involved in LA politics for a long time once told me why our current leaders like Antonio and Fabian Nunez (former leader, now “consultant) tend to flaunt their power with the trappings of success usually associated with millionaires – expensive restaurants, great wine, designer clothes and a wink and a nod when it comes to ethics.
They think it’s their turn, the old dog said.
I thought about this the other day when I read that Antonio, Fabian and former Ayatollah of the Assembly Willie Brown had dinner recently in one of Beverly Hills (note: not LA!) most expensive restaurants, Cut. (Great doggie bags, if somebody would like to try to bribe me.)
Willie Brown obviously thought it was his turn, too.
I think the old dog that shared this with me had it right. Just think about: If you met any of these guys when they were say 16, what do you think the odds were that they would be being among the most powerful leaders in California? A million to one? Maybe.
These guys are scrappers. They don’t have impressive educations. They operate from their gut. And because they hang out with lots of rich people who want things from them – remember their power – they tend to believe they should enjoy the same lifestyle.
That’s why a lot of people hate them. And I envy them. Remember, I live on kibble in Ron’s backyard.
And I’m scrappy too!
The Dog Trainer’s top dog columnist, Steve Lopez, did a dumb online poll last week, asking his readers for the “worst Angeleno of all time.” The winner? Not Richard “Night Stalker” Ramirez. Not Charles Manson. But Antonio!
The poll was ridiculous – and Lopez admitted it. But it says a lot about how people feel about LA right now, at least those who took the time to vote.
They are pissed off. They want a leader who can fix our problems, not a celebrity – even if it’s his turn.
Woof!!