On March 5th, Angelenos will have to decide between continuing in the same direction, with the same politicians, or trying something new with a new kind of leader. As a city, we’re at the brink of bankruptcy. We’re uninspired, we’re unemployed, hell, we’re unimpressed. I know I am. The next Mayor will have to solve the difficult problems that our current politicians either created or ignored. To do that, we need a mayor who understands what it’s like to be underserved, to be hungry, to struggle.
I’m running for Mayor because I understand LA’s problems and the solutions better than the other candidates (Eric Garcetti, Wendy Greuel, Kevin James, Jan Perry). I was born in South L.A., raised on the eastside by a single mother, and went to public schools. I understand because I’m actually running a grassroots campaign. My campaign is about giving a voice to all of LA’s communities, which means talking to everyone. Every day, my team and I walk the streets all over L.A., including South LA, Boyle Heights, Pico Union, and Pacoima. The reason Angelenos are undecided, unhappy, and unexcited is because they’ve been over promised and under represented.
Take a look at our city workers. Our elected officials promised them pension benefits the city could never afford. Now, not only will they not get the benefits they deserve, but the city is cutting funds from the parks, schools, and streets.
Our people are unemployed, our students aren’t graduating, and the people with the most need getting the least attention.
People didn’t come here from all over the world for this. You’ll hear them blame the economy, but we have streets in South LA and Pacoima without sidewalks. That’s not new, that’s not the economy’s fault, that’s neglect and irresponsibility.
We need someone who understands the economy and the underserved. I’ve worked in the private sector as a management consultant and a technology executive, and I was the only Angeleno selected by President Obama to manage his Economic Recovery Team.
LA has so much untapped potential. New results require new leaders and new ideas. I’m not an alternative choice, I’m the only choice for Angelenos that are tired of our mediocre past. We can’t keep accepting baby steps as real progress. I will create an LA where resources and investments are directed to communities where they can make the most impact. An LA where our students graduate, are trained, and can get the jobs of their choice. An LA where the government listens and responds to its people. We have a chance to make our government functional again. I’m here because I take that chance seriously. I’m here because over 1000 people signed and put me on the ballot. I’m here because you deserve better than what you’ve had for the last 10 years.
I’m here for you.
