Imitation, flattery, and accuracy

July 31, 2008 – 1:56 pm

Ed Treacy used the term “Accidental Mayor” in reference to Mayor Greg Ballard 9 times in the speech he gave upon his return as Marion County Democratic Chairman.  Now there is some sputtering on the Internet about the origin of the phrase “Accidental Mayor” and its accuracy. 

Pride forces me to claim credit.

On Election night 2007 I made the case that Ballard won a primary without support from the party organization and then ran a campaign with party support that consisted mostly of a desk and a phone.   Meantime, Democrat Bart Peterson raised income taxes in the face of a property tax crisis and the protest vote fell to Ballard. 

“In some ways he is the Accidental Mayor,” I said.

Whether the events constitute an accident, you can decide.  But the line is mine.

It was later picked up by a Democrat who ran a website by that title for a time.  I’m OK with that.  Just give credit (or blame) where it is due.