Jerry's Back

So today I attended the inauguration after party for Governor Jerry Brown. Yes, I was a field intern for Meg Whitman, but I genuinely want to see the man succeed. Our state needs a strong governor right now more than ever. And there were free hot dogs, paid for by the Orange County Public Employees Association. About time a public employee union did something for the benefit of the taxpayers.

It was also my first personal encounter with Jerry Brown. I had heard about the odd nature of his personality and was hoping not to be disappointed. I wasn't.

The organizers of the event had obviously expected Brown to come out to the south steps of the capitol and give some brief remarks to the assembled masses. A press riser was set up along with a stage. Both would prove useless, however. Brown did eventually come out of the building.  However, instead of walking to the stage he made a bee line - directly through the crowd, including myself and a few friends - to the hot dog tent. There he enjoyed his dog, chips, and water. Then, he zig-zaged through the crowd, on what most presumed was an indirect route to the stage. Along the way, people had began to follow him, expecting to be able to interact with the new governor.  It reminded me of this commercial. However, no speech was to be had.  His zig-zag ended at the doors to the capitol, where security escorted him back into the building.

Like the unfortunate driver in this ad, Californians are not insured against damage caused by Jerry Brown and his followers, so we best hope he governs wisely


Not surprisingly, many were not pleased with the new (and old) governor.  But it is a reminder that Jerry Brown is still Jerry Brown.  He listens to no one but himself and will do and say as he pleases.  This could be a good thing. We need a governor who is strong and will stand up and make the tough choices. Let's just hope he doesn't cave to the pressure of those who got him elected and who were dining on hot dogs in his honor today.

Good luck, Mr. Governor. We are counting on you.