Doris Allen
In “Standing Her Ground” (Nov. 23), The Times fails to adequately convey the political landscape at the time of Doris Allen’s three-month ascendancy to the Assembly speakership. The battle revolved around whether Willie Brown would have influence over the selection (and process) for the new speaker, or would the teeth of term limits finally chase Brown out of Sacramento.
Allen became Speaker Emeritus Brown’s puppet, thus perpetuating his hold on state government. Allen accommodated Brown’s Christmas list of perks to end his tenure: the stately title, the salary arrangement, the plush office space, the luxury automobile and the usual sundry trappings of political entrenchment.
If I remember correctly, the Republicans were somewhat patient in pursuing the speakership once Allen showed her cards. The Republicans opted for government by stalemate, ensuring that Brown’s scheme would cost him dearly (more deals to strike), while obstructing the new liberal majority from legislating. Allen simply failed to realize this. For my money, the Republicans kept Brown in check--a rare occurrence for any Brown foe.
Allen’s ambition to be speaker, coupled with her need to deal with Brown, is what doomed her tenure at the top.
JOHN G. HERNANDEZ
Claremont
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