Rael Surging: At Casa Valdez, 6 PM

“Rael is for Real”

By David Cortez

Candidate for Governor, Lawrence Rael will be at the Casa Valdez in Taos this evening at 6 pm. He’s climbing in the polls and speaks to all New Mexicans. In his own words:

“Like far too many New Mexican families, my childhood was a struggle – touched by the heavy hands of alcohol and poverty.  One evening when I was 3 years old my father was hit by a drunk driver and killed. That night my life changed forever, and my mother faced the daunting responsibility of raising 7 children on her own.

I’ll never forget how it felt to wake up without a father, and I will never forget that my experience is not unique. Thousands of New Mexican families have also lost a father, a sister, a son.

I am running for Governor because I know firsthand what is possible when families overcome poverty and have access to good jobs and quality schools. We have a lot of work to do, but together we can put New Mexico on track to prosperity”—Lawrence Rael

http://www.raelfornewmexico.com

https://www.facebook.com/events/1492248921006371/?ref_dashboard_filter=upcoming

Commentary

In the Democratic Party five-person race for governor, Lawrence Rael appeals to the “base” as a homegrown New Mexican. Rael reminds one vaguely of Anthony Quinn, and some middle-class Hispanics of the intelligent uncle, who is always working yet remembers his humble beginnings and is familiar with the struggle in a state, which ranks last in so many categories. While retaining his familiarity with family, Lawrence has experience in the intricate details of governance and getting things done.

Though opponents label Rael a bureaucrat or “longtime government administrator,” he’s campaigned at boxing matches in Pojoaque, Chef Bernie’s in Farmington, and marched gay pride parades in Albuquerque. Having worked for USDA, the City of Albuquerque, and Senatorial offices in Washington D.C. he knows where the rubber meets the road. He came in second in 2010 to former Democratic State Party Chair, Brian Colon in 2010 so he has had skin the game of statewide elections.

Here’s Rael response to the Albuquerque journal poll (http://www.abqjournal.com/406033/news/king-leads-pack-of-five-democrats-for-governor-nod.html)

“Today’s poll results from the Albuquerque Journal reveal just how this race will be won:

• 30% of likely Democratic voters remain undecided – a group that is less likely to support Gary King, whose momentum has slowed.
• My (Rael) campaign is leading among other candidates in northern New Mexico (a region Susana won in 2010) and in Albuquerque, where the most votes will be cast.
• The largest group of undecided voters is Hispanic.”

While candidate Allen Webber appeals to a desire for success in the realm of economic paradigms he has not lived in New Mexico long enough to grasp the culture of rural Hispanics, whose heritage dates back hundreds of years. Though Webber may use his fortune to confront the Gov. Martinez powerhouse, she will have the advantage in terms of age, race, and gender.

Though this “outsider,” seems committed to convincing New Mexicans that he’s a viable governor, a lot of those so-called outsiders make up a great portion of active dem voters. According to political commentator Joe Monahan, “Webber, who has so far raised more money than his Democratic rivals, was supported by 28 percent of Anglo voters who identified themselves as “liberal” – a higher figure than any other candidate among that voter demographic.” www.joemonahan.com

Howie Morales became a contender due to the insiders at the Democratic Party convention, who voted him the “leader” of the pack months ago. Well educated and representing a breath of fresh air, Morales has strong teacher support but seems too untried. He fairs poorly in fundraising, falling behind Webber and Rael. Appointed by Richardson as a State Senator, Morales has only one electoral race under his belt.

Gary King has huge name recognition but faired poorly at the Democratic Convention and is criticized for being ineffectual. He looks tired and overweight compared to a younger, more punchy and nationally recognizable Martinez. He should go on a protein diet and get some sun. Monahan says: “King supporters are awaiting his TV buy which they say will start this week. Will it be enough to hold the fort as Rael and Webber stay on the move? And can [will?]Howie Morales and Linda Lopez get in on the action with some last minute media buys of their own?” (www.joemonahan.com)

Linda Lopez, a weak fund-raiser, generates support around the state and appeals to Hispanic voters. And Lopez contends she’s the best candidate as a female Hispanic facing a female Hispanic.

While talking with one of Allen Webber’s outreach folks and watching Howie Morales speak with Congressman Lujan (an old college friend) in Taos, we agreed that the final democratic nominee seems up in the air. One local at an Amalia BBQ, familiar with New Mexico’s recent history, confirmed my opinion: we may not know who won on election night. (See “Ballot Bandits and Billionaires” by Greg Palast for a history of right-wing interference with elections in New Mexico.) After the primary, the Republican Machine will throw everything, including the barbecue grill at the democratic winner.

Watch Rael and stay tuned.