As the Grateful Dead would say: “What a long strange trip it has been.” Just when I think it can’t get any stranger, I’m wrong…again and again and again.
It was recently announced San Diego Sheriff Bill Gore will be setting up a “hotline” for anyone that wants to make a complaint of sexual harassment against Filner. This is unprecedented. But it does make a little sense. It wouldn’t be appropriate for it to be under the San Diego Police Chief since he reports directly to the mayor. And the Sheriff does have some of the best investigators around. Filner’s response to this development is that he welcomes it and that “some of these allegations will finally be addressed by an appropriate investigative authority rather than by press conference and innuendo.” Be careful what you wish for…
Strange Trip II – Why did it take her this long?! Now Gloria Allred is representing one of the accusers. Allred held a press conference on Monday of this week. And you didn’t think the circus was going to come to town this year…
This is a major development because this is the first accuser to come forward and identify herself. And it shocked a few people but didn’t surprise some that the first accuser is former Filner Director of Communications Irene McCormack Jackson. This women oozes credibility.
The actual complaint and the press conference contain some salacious tidbits. Among them Allred said that Filner had asked McCormack Jackson to “work without her panties on,” placed her in a headlock and told her that he wanted to consummate their relationship, among other incidents of alleged harassment.
City Attorney Jan Goldsmith made his strongest statement yet, “We will not under any circumstance represent Bob Filner.”
And incredulously, Mayor Filner issued a statement after the graphic description by McCormack Jackson came out. This is a man who has incredible chutzpah and he showed it in his statement.
“I am saddened by the charges that were leveled against me today. Once due process is allowed to unfold, I am certain there will be a better understanding of this situation.”
“I remain committed to the people of San Diego and the work that needs to be done. My dreams and plans for moving this City to new heights are continuing. I humbly ask that through this vicious storm of controversy, people take a moment and temper their rush to judgment.
“I do not believe these claims are valid. That is why due process is so important. I intend to defend myself vigorously and I know that justice will prevail.
That statement this week is almost as bad as his original apology which he issued to the media on DVD where he said, “I am also humbled to admit that I need help. I have reached into my heart and soul and realized I must and will change my behavior.”
Strange Trip III – Is a Recall Possible? Folks are salivating down here at the possibility of a recall. Two big problems. In general, a recall is tough because it requires a huge amount of signatures in a very short time. But recently, a new twist has come into the fold. The city’s recall procedure may be unconstitutional. Similar to the problem they had originally with the Gray Davis recall, the city’s language is almost identical. If supporters of the recall actually got it qualified for the ballot, there is no doubt Mayor Filner would have his representatives down at the courthouse quicker that you can say sexual harassment.
Best quote of the day from UT San Diego Columnist Logan Jenkins: “A high-heeled shoe fell Monday — and it was a stiletto that plunged deep in the chest of Mayor Bob Filner.”