Carlos Smith, the legislative assistant for state Representative Joe Saunders, is apparently campaigning for votes in the upcoming Orange County Democratic Party Chair’s election. The Orange County Democratic Executive Committee (DEC) will vote for a chair to replace Scott Randolph on December 16.
This is the latest twist as Scott Randolph’s allies attempt to keep control of the local party apparatus. Just last month, party membership rejected the attempted Chair’s election where current party leadership and establishment tried to force Sean Ashby, their chosen successor, into the position without opposition. Ashby has since removed his name from the race, even after he had dropped out of his campaign against County Commissioner Jennifer Thompson to run for party chair.
It was clear Ashby would lose to Clinton Salter, a long-time community activist and loyal Democrat. Oh, Clinton Salter also happens to be a minority, ready to give a new voice and place to all Democrats in Orange County.
With Ashby out, it appears Smith has been tapped by the team. But Smith is known for his own controversies as well. As the Communications Chair on the DEC Board under Scott Randolph, Smith has blocked elected DEC members from social media sites and shown significant bias towards candidates and elected officials of his liking over others. He has been a loyal Randolph stalwart since his days working for Scott Randolph in the state legislature, before he began working for Joe Saunders in Tallahassee.
This all brings up another dilemma for Smith. He is the aide to Rep. Saunders and he wants to lead the party which will constantly attack his boss’ colleagues and the Governor in one of the most contentious election seasons we will see. It will be interesting how many across the aisle will want to continue working with Rep. Saunders. This isn’t smart politics for Joe Saunders (who apparently has signed off on the move) and it isn’t smart for the local party.
Smith will basically be “missing in action” most of the election year, dealing with Tallahassee politics. Smith will also be busy helping his boss run for re-election after they navigate the legislative session. Other than his blind loyalty to his pair of bosses, Smith is interested in sucking up to the power establishment in hopes of gaining influence or favor.
His priorities are already clear and Democrats should expect more of the same when considering Carlos Smith.
Smith is sadly the latest attempt of the establishment to keep their grasp on a local party they have helped make irrelevant. He is the last thing the party needs going into 2014. He will be just another shade of his former boss and that has already done enough damage to the local party.
Excellent assessment & portrayal of how the estate of the local DEC really is malfunctioning..
CLINTON SALTER is the Chairman that this DEC needs in order to find its way back to BASICS, ENFRANCHISEMENT & ELECTORAL GAIN!
WHY CAN’T anyone let go of the “same old same as usual” baffles me.
There is no more “status quo” left to PROTECT and die hard habits need to go!
OUT with the old and USHER in the NEW!