District 3 Board of Supervisors Forum - First Impressions

Yesterday I went to a forum hosted by the University Club of San Francisco.  The forum was intended to give the candidates an opportunity to introduce themselves and answer a handful of policy issues to their district.  My purpose in attending this forum was twofold.  First off, I love going inside buildings in San Francisco.  The University Club has topped my list for some time now.  It looks old, it has flags from dozens of Universities hanging above it, but it isn't a hotel, nor is it an apartment complex.  Could it really just be a clubhouse?  This was what I was hoping for.  Secondly, seeing Wilma Pang's chubby smile and Claudine Cheng's hideous mugshot each day, I wanted to see what it was all about.  So here it is, kick off to the District 3 board of supervisors campaign race.

Joseph Alioto - If the Kennedys are from Maine, then the Aliotos are their West Coast equivalent.  Think of Mayjor Joe Quimby from the Simpsons and you'll have the right idea.  He was the most well dressed.  His posture and manner were the most polished.  He was a natural public speaker.  Just like Mayor Joe Quimby though, you could sense a hidden agenda.  Old school politician from a politically powerful family.

Tony Gantner - This guy was impressive.  His answer to the first question was thought provoking.  When asked which economic system did the candidate subscribbe to capitalism, socialism, or communism?  Gantner answered "I believe in capitalism, if by capitalism you mean free enterprise.  Free enterprise canoot operate without an aid to represent te population."  He answered each question professionally with intricate knowledge of the subject.  

Wilma Pang - Oh man, this lady was a joke.  She didn't know the answer to any of the questions, she knew little facts about any of the current issues in the city.  She boasted about her second place running in the 2004 Mayoral campaign against Gavin Newsom.  She even mentioned how she used to be an opera singer.  Ugh, this lady was lame.  

David Chiu - Ah, the Asian wunderchild.  This guy is every Asian mother's dream.  His list of achievements would leave any aunt's ear bleeding with envy.  He is the model by which every asian son is judged against.  His responses gave the feeling of entitlement to his nomination.  He has the endorsement of the current Supervisor of District 3, Aaron Peskin.  He was a bit condescending, but aside from my personal judgements is well qualified for the position.

Lynn Jefferson - This lady was the best in my opinion.  She knew all of the issues intimately.  She didn't have to read from her notes, she knew all of the relevant facts immediately.  She differentiates herself from the other candidates by saying she is the only true independent in this race.  She has absolutely no ties to any political machines.  She is financing her campaign herself.  This woman has devoted years of service to the city.  So far, she's my favorite.

Claudine Cheng - Elect your mother.  This woman was an enigma.  Her command of the english language was exceptional yet her pronunciation was like that of your mother's.  Still, I could understand her and my impression is of a very capable and devoted service woman who genuinely believes in a benevolent sort of way that she knows better than you.  Like your mom who takes over your math homework and just starts doing it for you.  She's like, give it here, just let me do it for you.  

Denise McCarthy - Reluctant candidate.  Having run a non profit that rescues homeless people or protects small businesses or something.  She was familiar with most of the issues and has led a life of civil service.  

Well, that's about all I can remember.  I thought it would be handy for people to know who the candidates actually were instead of random names pasted on hair salons and bus stops.  A handy guide to any district 3 resident.