I give the Commercial Appeal a hard time in my blog now and then, but I have to hand it to them: Their excellent editorial Friday endorsing Herman Morris for Memphis mayor played a big part in my decision to vote for him. No longer is my strategy to pick the most promising of the “Anybody But Willie” candidates – I now believe Morris really is the best person for the job.
For one thing, the article reminded me that Morris led MLGW during the “Hurricane Elvis” windstorm of July 2003. I thought MLGW responded very well in what was a crisis situation, and it gives me confidence that Morris would be able to effectively manage the city should another crisis – “The Big One” earthquake, a race riot, or whatever – occur.
More than that, though, I see in Morris effective, quiet leadership. He doesn’t feel the need to draw attention to himself as Herenton and Chumney do – he just gets things done. As the CA editorial pointed out, when others disagree with Morris, he listens, looks for commonalities, and tries to build consensus – whereas Herenton and Chumney tend to argue with those who disagree.
Up until last week I was undecided but leaning Chumney… and yet, there was a lot of doubt in my mind about Chumney the entire time. I look at her record on the City Council the past year and I see a lot more grandstanding than accomplishments. That’s not to say I think she’d be a bad mayor – I think she is indeed qualified and would make a far better choice than King Willie. However, I believe that Herman Morris’ manner and his leadership experience make him the best candidate.
I encourage everyone to read the CA’s editorial and then decide for yourself. I plan to walk down to the Election Commission sometime this week and cast my early vote for Herman Morris for mayor.
Here’s a link to the Morris for Mayor website.