Dear Editor:

There are several misconceptions in Nicole’s column (GLT, May 1, 2008) about the endorsement process of the San Diego Democratic Club. First, his description of “priority candidate” status is not accurate. It has been used often in primary races, in fact one of the current priority designations is for Marty Block who is running against two other Democrats in the 78th AD primary; all appeared at an SDDC forum, where Block was selected as the endorsed candidate and subsequently rated as “priority.”

Second, Mr. Murray-Ramirez uses the term “underhanded tactics” to describe the endorsement process in District 3. All SDDC procedures are clearly stated on their website and carefully followed. He attended that meeting along with approximately 300 others. It was the most well attended meeting in the club’s history. All candidates had the same access to the process, a thorough debate was held for all declared candidates with the exception of James Hartline, who was not invited. After a detailed debate, an endorsement vote was taken, with 254 ballots cast. Stephen Whitburn received 68.9 percent of the vote, well exceeding the 60 percent requirement for endorsement. I object the use of “underhanded” and challenge Nicole to provide details and proof of such a charge.

The meeting was properly noticed to the more than 500 members of the club, who are the final arbiters of any decision made by the SDDC. The results of any endorsements or other club positions are in the hands of the membership and are a function of who shows up at the meeting to have their say. It is participatory democracy.

As for the allegation that the SDDC is trying to “shove” Whitburn “down our throats,” the club endorsed Stephen Whitburn as the person who would best represent their interests. Additionally, such progressive voices as Councilmember Donna Frye, Representative Bob Filner, the Sierra Club, the SD Chapter of NOW and the County Democratic Party have all endorsed him. The voters of District 3 are competent and thoughtful and will vote for their best interests.

When the community has produced two well-qualified candidates for office, it makes no sense to spend time and energy attacking the supporters of either candidate. I challenge Nicole to roll up his sleeves, and work as hard for the candidate of his choice as I intend to work for my choice, Stephen Whitburn.

Mark Thompson

Dear Editor:

Poor Nicole. He/she is destitute, close to death and still manages to fly all over No. America. Good for her. Her backers are good to her.

Is he/she a paid consultant for the Todd Gloria campaign? Are they feeding he/she all these “facts” and poll numbers that support Gloria? Or is it made up? It’s also a shame too that Nicole likes to play the race card.

The SD Democratic Club wisely chose to support Steven Whitburn because he’s a highly qualified WINNER. When was the last time Miss M. attended a SDDC meeting? Steven has the backing of most of the people and organizations that count, and Nicole knows who they are.

The more I read Nicole, the more I am convinced that he/she should leave the Democratic party and form his “It’s all about me” party.

Many of my friends say “If Nicole likes a certain candidate then I will vote for his opponent”

Nixon had a hate list. Will I be on Nicole’s hate list? Can’t wait.

One last word – GO OBAMA

Bud Metzger

Dear Editor:

As a lifelong Democrat, I am puzzled at the San Diego Democratic Club’s decision to make the District 3 race a priority on the June ballot. It is obvious to anyone who is paying attention that the control of the Council will be decided by Districts 1 and 7. That is where our efforts should be focused.

To spend precious resources in a race where the outcome is certain to elect a liberal Democrat is irresponsible. If the Club’s intent was to alienate those of us who are not supporting their candidate, they have succeeded. I just hope they don’t succeed in denying Sherri Lightner and Marti Emerald the resources they need to win on Election Day.

Pepe Cervantes

Dear Editor:

I cannot understand why the San Diego Democratic Club would spend so much of its time trying to defeat a liberal Democrat, gay man of color, and long time Club member in the District 3 race.

What are the Club’s priorities? Where is its commitment to diversity? Why would it seek to divide our community? Finally, where I can sign up to join the Harvey Milk Democratic Club?

Scott Alvarez

Dear Editor:

As the June primary approaches I was happy to read Nicole’s comments on the District 3 race for City Council. I couldn’t agree more that the SDDC (San Diego Democratic Club) did indeed slight candidate Todd Gloria. Never mind the fact that Gloria scored the same as Whitburn in their questionnaire or that Mr. Whitburn is the SDDC’s “Manufactured” candidate. What’s important here is how good a councilperson both candidates will be. It is not in the SDDC’s interest to produce a quality nominee. This is a power play to get one of their own elected. After all the SDDC is a social club who happen to be Democrats. That became clear to me in the mid-1970 when I first became a member. The SDDC is a constructive way to kill time and has served our community well. I don’t feel they are out of touch. Quite contrary, they are savy politicos that play the game well.

Mr. Whitburn is a cerebral guy and an excellent parliamentarian. When he ran the SDDC for two terms as its president, his hallmarks were smooth meetings, but many important decisions were made with minimal open discussion. Very similar to how the SDDC handled Mr. Whitburn’s endorsement. I suspect this is the way Whitburn will behave as councilperson … and this should give us a bit of concern and worry.

A consensus-maker, Mr. Whitburn is not. And perhaps this is why Mr. Whitburn is not suited to take a San Diego City Council seat.

Terry E. Abrams