The Chronicle issues election endorsements only in those races where we believe our opinion may serve our readers and make a difference. We urge all our readers to vote in the primary of their choice on election day, Tuesday, April 9.
U.S. Senate (Democrat): Ron Kirk
The Democratic primary campaign has reinforced our suspicion that Victor Morales believes political amateurism is its own reward. Although they differ on some matters, Ron Kirk and Morales are not far apart on most issues. But absent either party support or an independent movement, Morales cannot win in November — and should he be the “Democratic” nominee, he makes it virtually certain that John Cornyn will assume a drearily Phil Gramm-like reign in Washington. Once again: If you want to help build a Democratic ticket that not only reflects the real Texas, but actually has a chance to represent it — vote for Ron Kirk.
Texas House of Representatives, District 51 (Democrat): Eddie Rodriguez
The winner of the race between Eddie Rodriguez and Lulu Flores will be filling the shoes of Glen Maxey, a legislator who admirably served both the interests of Dist. 51 and of Austin, as well as the larger progressive agenda. Who will better fill the void Maxey’s retirement leaves in the House? We feel Rodriguez is the better choice.
We see in Rodriguez the same combination of drive, flexibility, and unquestioned commitment to the needs of those in need, and it’s also clear that Maxey is Rodriguez’s model of an effective public servant. He’s one of our exemplars, too. So in this tough race, we believe Eddie Rodriguez deserves your vote.
This article appears in April 5 • 2002.