Update from the homefront

Looks like the drama continues in my hometown of Spokane, WA. The Washington State Supreme Court ruled yesterday that a recall petition for Spokane Mayor Jim West can proceed. You may or may not remember that Mayor West stands accused of soliciting men online for sex, and offering one willing taker a City Hall internship in return for sexual gratification. Bad luck for Mayor West since this 18 year old man turned out to be a computer forensics expert aiding in a sting operation (there is some debate about the motives behind this investigation, considering it was sponsored by the Spokesman-Review who’s editorial and executive staff maintain ties with one of West’s opponents…another topic altogether).

Unfortunately, this episode seems bound to further augment the homophobia endemic to Eastern Washington/Northern Idaho. Guess what guys, not all homosexuals go around soliciting youngsters for sex in return for professional favors. In fact, oh my god he’s going to say it, perhaps the culture in Spokane maybe even contributed in the slightest way to Mr. West’s actions. I’m not talking about using power for sex; that’s another issue where Mayor West seems blatantly, and deservingly guilty. Instead, I’m talking about the need for clandestine homosexual affairs carried out under the guise of a happily married family man. While outwardly championing a strongly anti-gay agenda, Mayor West battled with his internal struggle that eventually sunk him.

Jim West committed a despicable crime by using his political might for sex. For this, he should lose his job and endure the dual ignominy of public humiliation and legal sanctions. He is, however, also a victim of backwards prejudices permeating the social and political atmosphere in that region. I’m only sorry that instead of using his visibility and political sway to encourage progressive change in Spokane, he, instead, wilted under the force of public opinion and plunged into inimical behavior. The damage reaches far beyond himself.

Addendum: Also, let it be known that councilman Joe Shogan, mentioned in the final paragraph, used to make me exercise military-style firedrills every time his son, Chris, invited me to sleep over during grade school. I still wake up occasionally in a cold sweat fumbling for the window latch. It’s your glasses case, Phil. Go back to sleep. I have no doubt this guy will wreak similar havoc upon Mr. West.