GUEST COMMENTARY - Until the 2020 Presidential election, Americans took it for granted that the losing side in a political race would be gracious and respectful to the winning side.
And the winning side would thank their competitor and relay the wishes of success expressed by the losing side.
That is how it is done in the United States, at all levels of elected positions from the Federal to State and local levels.
That is why it was very surprising and disturbing to hear from an existing elected official and candidate from the second largest City in the Country, that he may not issue a concession statement, let alone give a concession speech.
Paul Koretz is quoted in the LA Times as saying: “I don’t know that I’ll ever bother to issue a concession statement,” Koretz said. “It’s not like people are waiting to hear from the candidates for controller.”
That statement is an insult to all Angelenos who went out in the rain to vote in the November 8 general election.
As of 4:23 PM on November 10, 2022, the LA County Clerk reported Kenneth Mejia trouncing Paul Koretz 60.92% to 39.08% an insurmountable lead of over 21 points.
Councilman Koretz, would be the last person I would expect to behave like this. This is the wrong way to conclude a long political career which included serving on the West Hollywood City Council, the California State Assembly, and the LA City Council (until being termed out).
I have observed Mr. Koretz both in the Council Chambers and out in the community as a gentleman who would take the necessary time to talk one-on-one and listen to the concerns of his constituents.
Now is the time for Mr. Koretz to restore his legacy and have the common decency to give a concession speech (not just issuing a statement) and extend his congratulations and well wishes for success to Mr. Mejia.
That’s the least he can do for those who supported him and for the City at large.
(Bob Blue is a resident of, and registered voter in the City of Los Angeles. He can be reached at [email protected] )
