Bill Russell refuses to answer questions, offers correction

It appears I repeated a rumor in a blog post concerning the recent Asheville City Council election.

On November 8, I wrote: “Republican Bill Russell, a political neophyte who had never attended a City Council meeting before September, bought a seat by outspending everyone else and saying very little about his policy positions. He was Asheville’s G.W. Bush with whom almost anyone might want to drink a beer but whose political thinking was, apparently, somewhat less than skin deep. His backers were Republicans, local developers and a large number of out-of-state contributors. Russell’s out-of-state receipts nearly equaled the TOTAL contributions to incumbent Bryan Freeborn.”

In response to a query from me, yesterday (see below), Russell wrote back to let me know that he had attended some council meetings in the past: “Yep…it was false and a total lie from whomever started that rumor.

“I only saw you, Gordon [Smith: on ScrutinyHooligans.us], & Elaine [Lite] making the comment so I can only presume it started from one of the three.

“Fact is, over the last two years, I sat in on a dozen or so meetings (usually in the back row), and starting on Tuesday, July 24th, I attended EVERY meeting and only missed two since then as a result of previously planned business trips with my work. I also attended many P&Z meetings to learn about other issues.

“Not a big deal, but I don’t like seeing false claims made about my commitments to meetings. You are the only true ‘media’ source from the 3 and I would hope you try to confirm all the allegations and information you report.

“BTW…I can’t believe you compare me to George Bush, but I’m glad you’d like to have a beer with me…. Cheers!”

I am more than happy to make the correction. Somehow I thought that charge had been made at a candidates’ debate and not refuted. I herewith apologize to Russell for the error, and, yes, I do try very hard to get my facts straight.

As for the comparison to Bush, I think it’s fair: buying an election in which one makes only the vaguest of policy statements is the comparison I intended. I’ll be fascinated to see the final campaign accounting. I won’t be surprised if Russell spent four times what Freeborn did. Those extra 70 votes cost Russell at least $500 apiece. I’m sure the developers and real estate interests who paid for the campaign feel they were worth every penny.

And, hey, I’d love to have a beer with you sometime Bill. As long as it’s a local brew.

The question Russell refused to answer from me, and from Screwy Hoolie, is “What are your three top priorities for the coming term of council?” Maybe he needs to check with his handlers, and those Florida developers are always out of the office at this time of year.

~ by bothwellsblog on December 23, 2007.