Analyzing the Reasons Why Alarcon Beat Hall
* While Marc Litchman’s insightful article about the victory of Richard Alarcon in the 7th Council District was well-reasoned, a few points must be made regarding why Alarcon was victorious.
The organization assembled by Alarcon was the finest one that I have witnessed in a local election. From phone banks and precinct walks to strategy and message, Richard effectively and efficiently assembled a fine pool of talent in both paid and volunteer positions.
In most races, money beats a good organization, but this race was the exception. Despite being outspent, Alarcon was able to get his message--and the vote--out.
Endorsements are a major factor in elections--usually. Even though Lyle Hall garnered the endorsements of most labor unions and many elected officials, Alarcon prevented him from getting all the endorsements, peeling off just enough to make a difference. The one endorsement that proved highly beneficial was from the Democratic Party of the San Fernando Valley, due to the overwhelming number of Democrats in the district.
HOWARD COHEN
North Hills
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