Milton Street’s Last Stand: Why Philly Needs Him for Mayor
James Dugan
For Philadelphia politics, this very well may be The Last Friday the 13th. It seems to be a changing of the guard; all the crazies are leaving and the craziest, Milton Street, may not get another chance to leave. But let’s remember it is the full moon that can change a man from crazy to passionate, and I will not let go of the passion for all the Nutter and Fluff sandwiches in the world.
So in response to the recent article is Philly Getting Soft, I, in all my infinite powers of the internet and as a member of this humble lunch discussion, endorse Milton Street for the Democratic Party as Mayor of Philadelphia. I do not recommend Milton over Nutter because Nutter has done a poor job. I think with the shrinking economy, the malice against democratic ideals in Harrisburg, and the lunatics in Council, he has done a good job. He represents the city in an articulate and thoughtful manner. He is respectful to the traditions and tried to respect the labor unions in an anti-union era. He is tough on crime and center city continues its resurgence as one of the best urban living centers in the country. The whole region is benefitting from his professional and diplomatic persona in the state and in Washington.
But Nutter can be the mayor of any large city. He grew up here, but lacks the off the cuff comments and hot head anger that has made Philadelphia politics as fun to participate in as it is to read in the papers. He has no scandals. He keeps his nose away from the sinking ship of the school district. He plans his press conferences better than his tailored suits. I don’t even know of a contract he has given to any family member. He seems to be one of the only politicians in the country who is not a millionaire and can raise funds, lots of funds for an uncontested election. In a phrase, Mayor Nutter is soft, likeable, and the worst possible lightning rod.
By Kyle CassidyThis is why I endorse Milton Street. As a long time tax evader, he will restore faith that City Hall is still out for itself. And they will need it as five long time, bona fide politicos, exit stage right (only to show up in three months at stage left again, I’m pretty sure). He will not plan any speeches. His versatile personality will stage a coup when no one is looking. He will create enemies out of unsuspecting people and make friends with anyone who will offer him a microphone. He will talk about himself and set agendas that will infuriate, alienate, and berate. In a phrase, he will take Philadelphia politics back 30 years.
We need personality again. We need to restore faith in the corruption of City Hall. We need fights and ward bosses and intimidation. We need an election to get our fire going. No one seems to care, except Milton, who seems to care enough for all of us. He is fighting for God knows what, but our city has been known to give a guy a chance just because we didn’t like the other one. Why can’t we give Milton his last free ride and buck the whole system just to see what damage, if any, he could do? No matter what, it will be immensely entertaining.
Do not vote for a good politician, vote for a non-conformist. Vote for a former convict with a hidden agenda he is dying to show you. Vote for passion and a gift of spin that will get our press conferences trending on CNN every time. It is time for change, not because it is good, but because I’m afraid if Milton doesn’t win, the city of Philadelphia will grow softer and less passionate. Save us from ourselves, Milton.
Reader Comments (2)
Loved your post! Filled with passion and enthusiasm (albeit sarcastically) as always! If only I lived in the city! Perhaps we recommend a dollar dog night for the night of elections. That'll DEFINITELY get people out to vote! I know how big of a crowd CB Park gets on their dollar dog night, so maybe Milton can bring some of his veteran vendoring success back around these parts and win after all! Where there's a dog, there's a way.
You're at your all time best here! When you write about Philadelphia, your style and passion and honesty all come shining through.
The very idea that we actually have a character like Milton Street in our midst is both terrifying and enthralling at the same time. He, for all his foibles and outright crimes, makes Philadelphia unique. As much as I want legitimacy and reform for Philadelphia, I can't help but agree that we are losing our edge.
All good cities need their characters. The political landscape is truly a stage where some performers somehow continue to shine. The Inquirer's coverage of Miltty and his brother John was disturbing and fascinating. These two are an institution.
However, your sarcastic message touches on a real problem- the lack of true democracy in this city, and many others up and down the east coast. Nutter is shoe in, not because he has been exceptionally competent or because he is even well-liked, but rather because of our increasing gross indifference. There are no contenders, even in his own party, and it's a shame. For a city of such success and education and history, the fact that we can't run any other candidates against Nutter is a disgrace. However, I digress...
Thanks for the funny, albeit disheartening, lunch!