An Absurd Case Against Ferguson

Gil Ferguson, known for both his integrity and his conservative values, is being charged by turncoat Republican Assemblyman Paul Horcher (I-Diamond Bar) as having given him advice to support Willie Brown in his battle for Speaker of the Assembly. Why? Why would Horcher make such a ridiculous allegation? The answer is simple. Willie Brown wants to remain Speaker.

Given that the Assembly is at a virtual deadlock, maneuvering to change the vote count is ongoing. If Horcher is successfully recalled, and a Republican replaces him, Brown loses a vote. To guard against this, Brown is pouring in contributions against Horcher’s recall.

Meanwhile, in the upcoming battle for Marian Bergeson’s vacated Senate seat, Ferguson’s two main opponents are sitting Republican Assembly members, Ross Johnson and Doris Allen. If either were to prevail, his or her seat would become vacant, resulting in one less vote in opposition to Willie Brown. A Ferguson victory, on the other hand, does nothing to disrupt the Assembly status quo. Willie Brown’s wishes are simple. He can’t afford a Ferguson victory.

There is no question that Willie Brown has encouraged the blatantly false Horcher accusation that Ferguson suggested he bolt to the Brown camp.

If Johnson and Allen cared so much about Willie Brown’s tenure as Speaker, they would not risk vacating their current Assembly seats. A victory by either would automatically ensure a continuing Speakership for Willie Brown.

The well-orchestrated Willie Brown attack on Ferguson is both clever and serves a strong Democratic Party purpose.

Marilyn Osenbaugh

Newport Beach