I decline the implicit invitation to see who can be the most flamboyant in writing into this blog.
If this election turns on whether Mr. Maienschein made the correct decision that attending to his child’s health issues trumps attending a council meeting, then I like his chances.
As to the broader issue of council attendance or participation, I can attest that Mr. Maienschein has been my council member for eight years, and I never found him disengaged, or AWOL, or casual, on any issue, much less on any issue of importance to me. I did not always agree with his positions. But he always was doing his job. More broadly, the citizens of San Diego apparently agree, as it appears that more individual citizens have contributed to Mr. Maienschein than to any other candidate.
As to the issue of the pension votes, I, as would any thoughtful citizen of San Diego, have had to consider to what degree those votes influence my vote. Here is my view: To recognize an error is both introspective and objective. To learn from the error is thoughtful. To publicly acknowledge the error is an indication of humility, maturity, and integrity. These are qualities that matter to me. Brian Maienschein has publicly acknowledged his votes were a mistake. I respect that.
Finally, as to his qualifications as an attorney, I can only speak from personal experience. I have been an attorney and law professor for more than 20 years. I have worked closely with Brian on some issues, and have debated with him on others. I am more than satisfied with his skills as an attorney. I would not and could not support him otherwise, as the role of the office is too important. I do support Brian Maienschein for city attorney, and I encourage you to consider doing the same.