It seems we are seeing more grass roots candidates this election cycle and the filing deadline is still weeks away.  Political experts say these candidates don’t stand a chance.  Without a bankroll they may not.  But what is more important is that most of our current entrenched politicos are feeling just a bit of heat.  And some of those war chests might have to be spent on campaigning rather than wining and dining their family and friends.  That is a good thing.

Sheriff Rod Hoops now has two competitors:  Rick Averbeck and Paul Schrader.  District Attorney Mike Ramos is being challenged by at least one, Dennis Stout.  John Pomierski and Dennis H. Labadie have both thrown their hats into the ring to replace Second District Supervisor Paul Biane.  We haven’t heard if a candidate has announced his or her intent to run against Larry Walker, but there is talk that will happen.

But one candidate in particular stands out as being a shoe-in, not because the incumbent is such a great leader, but because no one seems to want to file to run against him.  That is Fourth District Supervisor and Chairman of the Board Gary Ovitt.  Ovitt seems to be getting a free ride this time around and that should not be.

Ovitt has shown little in leadership qualities during his year as Chairman, most recently aiding and abetting the most corrupt district attorney in the country in a blatant coverup of a sex scandal.  Ovitt needs an opponent.  We need for Gary to have an opponent, even if only to give him a sleepless night or two or at least give the appearance that he, on occasion, will make an ethical decision.

It’s time we start prodding fourth district residents to take up arms, figuratively speaking of course, and take back their district.  We need to find a challenger or two for Ovitt.

The most likely challenger for the spot is Senator Gloria Negrete McCloud.  Another name being bantered around is Chino Councilwoman Eunice Ulloa.  Either would provide a breath of fresh air to the fifth floor but neither seem all that interested in leaving the safety of the current seats.  Ovitt does not deserve a free ride.  We need to find someone to give him a run for his money.  Anyone have any great ideas?