If you ever questioned Central Florida’s politics as a game of “them” versus “the rest of us,” look no further than the County Commission race for more evidence. The upcoming September 12th fundraiser for County Commission candidate Lui Damiani boasts quite the host committee. It raises questions about who are elected officials and candidates are really beholden to.
Damiani’s “very special fundraiser” at Citrus Restaurant is a who’s who of Orlando’s elite and powerful. On a quick glance, you’ll find lobbyists, big lawyers, developers and those elected officials that make it all happen.
Notables on the list include Kevin Shaughnessy and Thomas Katheder, attorneys and current Charter Review Commission members, and Derek Bruce, a lobbyist who was Chairman of the most recent Redistricting Committee. There has been controversy over the redistricting process at the county level and Hispanic representation at the county level. Latino Justice is currently suing Orange County over diluting Hispanic voting strength in the final districts.
Also on the list were local power players like Darden lobbyist Beth Thibodaux, Disney lobbyist Sharon Smoley, Manager of Disney Government Relations Jacob Dipietre, and Government Consultant and lobbyist Angel de la Portilla. Magic CEO Alex Martins and Craig Ustler, a huge developer and developer of Creative Village, join Mayor Buddy Dyer and Commissioners Patty Sheehan, Tony Ortiz and Sam Ings.
Then don’t forget players like Charles Gray and Micky Grindstaff of Gray Robinson who are major players in city and county land use. As is Fred Leonhardt, the big time Republican lobbyist and also top attorney at Gray Robinson law firm, who caused a stir of drama with his “no name” men’s only parties with cigars, liquor, lobbyists and elected officials alike. In fact, this host committee is probably part of the guest list from those no name parties.
Maybe that’s why Orange County Mayor Teresa Jacobs is noticeably absent from the list but Bill Segal makes an appearance.
This is a very connected list. I’m sure the response will be: it shows strength, it shows Damiani can “get things done.” It also brings to mind a tune that goes a little like: There’s something happening here. What it is ain’t exactly clear.
It is clear there’s a power game in town that regular Orlando folks are not invited to. If you can’t see it, or don’t want to see it, or just want to brush it off as politics in Orange County, then continue the “us vs. us” fight they love watching as they take power. In fact, they’re counting on it. But the local establishment picks its winners and it’s not about party and it’s not about the people.
This is indeed a “very special fundraiser.” Because now we know for sure there is no way Lui Damiani is going to work on behalf of YOUR interest if elected. No way. Not going to happen unless in you are on that list or in their club.
One of the reasons I’m voting for Pete Clarke is because he doesn’t have the backing of the power elite. I feel he is one of us. We have to change the system. We have to get the big money out of politics, especially at the local level or us little guys don’t have a chance.
[…] back Commission while dividing up the Hispanic community his district was supposed to represent. Lui Damiani partied with Power Players, not the real people in his campaign. But the Hispanic community was awake and mobilized behind Pete Clarke to defeat […]