Fellow Tulsans, When my brother Mark ran for Mayor four years ago as an Independent, I became well ware of the political machine that has a stranglehold on our community. This machine favors the candidates who fall in line and it influences elections out of self-interest for perpetuating the power of the machine --- often at the expense of the best interests of OUR community. When I decided to run for office I told my wife I would never put my self-interest ahead of the good decisions I felt were best for our community. It is in that context I am writing this today. During my run for County Commission I was not one of the “chosen” Candidates. Large political forces looking out for their own interests attacked my family and me personally. I was actually told “Brandon, you know your personal life will be ruined” and “if you step aside, put in your time with the Tulsa County Republicans, learn our platform and where you need to stand on the certain issues, you will have a bright future in our party.” This sad mantra was said by several influential names you would surely recognize. I simply reject that approach to politics. This is an important election for our community. In order to move Tulsa toward a better future we must perform a SWOT analysis (strengths, weakness, opportunities, and threats) and use that information to craft the future for our grandchildren. The decisions we make now will be OUR legacy. Fortunately for the voters of Tulsa, both candidates have served a term as Mayor. We are able to identify and analyze each candidate’s SWOT’s, work ethic, management style, and vision. I consider Mayor Bartlett a friend who has been very good to me. He appointed me directly or indirectly to 5 Boards and Commissions, and has given me a better opportunity to work towards the vision I have for Tulsa. Unfortunately, I don’t believe he has communicated his Vision or Plan for the better Tulsa. He has surrounded himself with some questionable political players, like Terry Simonson, whom I believe are more interested in serving themselves than serving Tulsa. I believe good leadership includes surrounding yourself with quality leaders. And, I am tired of the negative campaigning disingenuously focused on national partisan issues. I would have liked to hear more about his VISION, and his PLAN for a better Tulsa. Kathy Taylor has communicated her dreams of a strong education system, which will lower crime and increase jobs. Kathy has communicated her commitment to a strong and viable urban core. Kathy has communicated her plan to bring jobs. Kathy has communicated her plan for quality infrastructure and responsible infrastructure planning. Kathy has communicated her plan for cracking down on crime. Many Republicans have shared their concerns that Kathy may seek a higher office. While there is no proof of that, I don’t think we should base decisions about local leaders on some hypothetical future political scenario nor on national policy issues. In local elections, I choose Tulsa today and everyday. Kathy Taylor is not perfect. She signed on to a national anti-illegal gun initiative that I disagreed with, but she then saw the flaws in that policy and withdrew her support. I do believe one facet of leadership includes admitting mistakes and changing course if needed. She also seeks out advice and opinions of our brightest citizens without regard to political parties. I like that in a leader. I encourage you to take a deep look, and perform your own SWOT analysis. Sift through the rhetoric of the party machines, and make a strong, informed decision based on facts and ideas for a better future for the City of Tulsa. I hope you will join this Republican in voting for OUR Future by voting Kathy Taylor for Mayor. And while you are out and about today, don’t forget to thank a Veteran for their service, and for protecting our right to Vote and our freedom of speech. Yours in Tulsa, Brandon
Posted on: Tue, 12 Nov 2013 01:25:57 +0000
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