🔴 Red Wave in the Old Pueblo? GOP Candidate Predicts Major Upset in Pima County
🌵 Cactus and Concrete: Comparing Tucson's Urban Challenges to Detroit's Past
Based on the 9/25/24 Jump In Tucson Show on KVOI-1030AM.
🙊 Notable quotes from the show
Steve Spain expressed certainty about winning his race against incumbent Rex Scott. He predicted a possible Republican majority on the Board of Supervisors, stating, "I do think we, if I'm going out on a limb, I think we take the majority this year."
"Detroit declared bankruptcy, pretty much the largest municipal bankruptcy in the history of the United States, right?" - Grant Krueger, contextualizing Tucson's financial challenges by referencing Detroit's past
"They have managed to go from making $1.1 billion a year in revenue before this board came in to turning around right off the bat and spending just over $2 billion their first year" - Steve Spain, criticizing Pima County's current financial management
"I do think that instead of being a headwind, that will be a bit of a tailwind this time." - Steve Spain, suggesting that national Republican politics might positively impact local Tucson elections
"Until you've paid a rent, a mortgage, made the payroll for hundreds of employees, having to move heaven and earth from all of your corporate and personal finances, you may not fully understand what it's like to run a budget like that." - Grant Krueger, emphasizing the importance of private sector experience in governance
"Take your time to go through and vote every race on that ballot. It's so important." - Steve Spain, encouraging voter engagement in all aspects of the election
⏮️ ICYMI: From the Last Show…
😽 Keepin’ It Simple Summary for Younger Readers
👧🏾✊🏾👦🏾
📻 On a radio show, people talked about making Tucson better 🌵. They said Tucson is like Detroit used to be 🏙️, with money problems 💸 and people moving away. A man named Steve 👨💼 wants to be a leader and says he can fix things by being careful with money 💰. He thinks his team might win the next vote 🗳️. The show says it's important for grown-ups to vote in all the small races too, not just the big ones. They hope Tucson can become really great like Detroit is now, with fun sports teams and happy people 😊🏟️.
🗝️ Takeaways
🏙️ Tucson and Detroit share surprising similarities in urban challenges, offering potential lessons for revitalization
💰 Pima County's budget management is under scrutiny, with accusations of unsustainable deficit spending
🔴 Republican candidates are optimistic about potential gains in Pima County leadership
🗳️ The upcoming election features a complex ballot with 13 initiatives, emphasizing the importance of voter engagement
💼 The value of private sector experience in public governance is a key campaign theme
🌊 National political trends may significantly impact local Pima County elections
📻 What They Discussed
On Wednesday, September 25, 2024, "Jump in Tucson," hosted by Grant Krueger, aired a thought-provoking episode that delved into the intricate web of local politics and urban revitalization. The show featured two notable guests: Larry Krueger, Grant's father visiting from Detroit, bringing with him a wealth of experience from the Motor City's tumultuous history and recent resurgence; and Steve Spain, the Republican candidate for Pima County Supervisor in District 1, offering a fresh perspective from his background in IT and hospitality. This trio of voices created a dynamic discussion, weaving together threads of urban history, local governance, and the looming Pima County elections.
🏙️ A Tale of Two Cities: Detroit's Shadow Over Tucson
The episode kicked off with a compelling comparison between Detroit and Tucson, two cities that, at first glance, might seem worlds apart. Grant Krueger, drawing from his Detroit roots, illuminated surprising parallels:
Population Parity: Detroit (620,000) and Tucson (542,000) boast similar population sizes, creating a basis for comparison in urban management.
Border Dynamics: Both cities grapple with the complexities of cross-border commerce - Detroit with Windsor, Ontario, and Tucson with Nogales, Sonora.
Suburban Sprawl: The challenges of urban cores hemorrhaging population to surrounding suburbs resonated in both narratives.
Sports and Cultural Losses: Both cities have experienced the sting of losing major sports teams and cultural events, which has impacted civic pride and local economies.
The most striking parallel, however, was the specter of financial struggle. Krueger reminded listeners of Detroit's 2013 bankruptcy, the largest municipal bankruptcy in U.S. history. This historical context set the stage for a critical examination of Tucson's current financial situation, implying that Tucson could be treading a similar path if corrective measures aren't taken.
While fascinating, this comparison raises questions about the validity of such direct parallels. Detroit's history of racial tension, automotive industry dependence, and extreme population decline presents a unique case study that may not directly translate to Tucson's situation. Nevertheless, the narrative was a powerful rhetorical device to frame the subsequent discussion on Pima County's finances and governance.
💰 Budgetary Battlegrounds: Pima County's Fiscal Firestorm
Leveraging his IT and hospitality background, Steve Spain launched into a scathing critique of Pima County's financial management. His arguments centered on several key points:
Deficit Spending: Spain accused the current leadership, particularly incumbent Rex Scott, of running significant deficit budgets. He stated, "They have managed to go from taking $1.1 billion a year in revenue before this board came in to turning around right off the bat and spending just over $2 billion their first year."
Federal Fund Dependency: Spain criticized using federal funds to cover budget shortfalls, arguing that this practice is unsustainable and essentially passes the buck to future generations.
Credit Issuance: The recent approval of $95 million in new credit was presented as evidence of fiscal irresponsibility, with Spain breaking it down to $95 per Pima County resident.
Hidden Taxes: Spain argued that the $55 million credit against future sewer revenues amounts to a hidden tax, as it will necessitate higher fees to cover the debt in the future.
Long-term Consequences: The overall narrative painted a picture of a county mortgaging its future, with Spain drawing parallels to the financial mismanagement that led to Detroit's bankruptcy.
This financial discussion highlighted a key campaign issue for Spain: fiscal responsibility. By drawing parallels to Detroit's past financial troubles, the show subtly suggested that Tucson could face similar dire straits without change.
However, this narrative also raises questions about the complexity of municipal finance. Are these deficits a result of mismanagement, or are they reflective of necessary investments in infrastructure and services? The show's framing didn't delve into the nuances of budget allocations or the potential long-term benefits of current spending, leaving room for a more comprehensive analysis of Pima County's financial situation.
🗳️ Election Anticipation: Red Wave or Mirage in the Desert?
The conversation then shifted to the upcoming Pima County election, with Spain expressing confidence in a potential Republican victory. His predictions were bold:
District 1 Victory: Spain expressed certainty about winning his race against incumbent Rex Scott.
Republican Majority: He went further, predicting a possible Republican majority on the Board of Supervisors, stating, "I do think we, if I'm going out on a limb, I think we take the majority this year."
Voter Frustration: Spain attributed this potential shift to growing frustration among voters with current county leadership.
The show emphasized the importance of down-ballot voting, with Spain urging listeners to "vote every race on that ballot." This push for voter engagement was coupled with a discussion on the complexity of the upcoming ballot, which features 13 initiatives and potentially spans two pages.
This segment raises essential questions about the nature of local politics and the influence of national trends on county-level elections. Is the predicted "red wave" a reflection of local issues, or is it more indicative of broader political shifts? The show's framing didn't explore the potential downsides of partisan shifts in local governance, where issues often require bipartisan solutions.
🔄 From Motor City to Old Pueblo: A Blueprint for Revival or False Equivalence?
Perhaps the most intriguing aspect of the discussion was the use of Detroit's revitalization as a potential model for Tucson. Grant Krueger spoke passionately about Detroit's comeback, citing several key indicators:
Return of Sports Teams: The relocation of major sports franchises back to the city center was a sign of renewed vitality.
New Stadiums: Investment in sports infrastructure was framed as a catalyst for broader economic development.
Resurgence of Civic Pride: Krueger pointed to the strong showing of Detroit Lions fans at an away game in Arizona as evidence of renewed city spirit.
This narrative served a dual purpose: it offered hope for Tucson's future while subtly suggesting that a change in leadership (like the one Detroit experienced post-bankruptcy) could be the catalyst for such a revival.
However, this comparison also merits closer examination. Detroit's revival, while encouraging, has been uneven, with certain neighborhoods and demographics benefiting more than others. The role of large-scale private investment, particularly from the automotive industry, in Detroit's comeback is a factor that may not be directly applicable to Tucson. Furthermore, the social and racial dynamics of Detroit's revitalization raise questions about equitable urban development that weren't addressed in the show's narrative.
🎓 From Private Sector to Public Service: The Promise and Perils of Business-Minded Governance
Steve Spain's background in IT and hospitality was presented as a fresh perspective needed in local government.
The show emphasized the importance of private sector experience in governance, with Krueger arguing, "Until you've paid a rent, a mortgage, made the payroll for hundreds of employees having to move heaven and earth from all of your corporate and personal finances, you may not fully understand what it's like to run a budget like that."
This framing positioned Spain as a candidate who could bring practical, business-oriented solutions to Pima County's challenges. The narrative touched on several key points:
Fiscal Responsibility: Spain's business background was presented as crucial for managing county finances.
Job Creation: His experience in the private sector was linked to potential strategies for economic development.
Practical Problem-Solving: The implication was that business experience translates to more effective governance.
While private sector experience can indeed bring valuable perspectives to government, this narrative also raises questions about the differences between running a business and governing a diverse community. Public sector management often involves balancing competing interests, addressing social equity, and providing services that may not be profitable but are essential for community well-being. The show's framing didn't explore these nuances, potentially oversimplifying the complexities of public governance.
🐘 Republican Realities: Navigating Party Unity and National Influences
The show didn't shy away from addressing challenges within the Republican Party, acknowledging primary divisions but calling for unity in the general election. This segment touched on several key points:
Primary Divisions: The show mentioned contentious primaries, including races involving Senators Vince Leach and Justine Wadzak and the congressional race between Juan Ciscomani and Kathleen Nguyen.
Call for Unity: Spain emphasized the importance of supporting primary winners for the greater good of the party.
National Implications: The discussion linked local races to broader control of legislative bodies, emphasizing the knock-on effects of local elections.
Spain expressed optimism about the potential "Trump ticket" effect on local races, contrasting it with the 2020 election: "I do think that instead of being a headwind, that will be a bit of a tailwind this time."
This segment highlighted the complex interplay between national and local politics and how candidates like Spain navigate these waters. However, it also raises questions about the impact of national political polarization on local governance. Can focusing on national party dynamics detract from addressing local, often non-partisan issues?
⚖️ Justice on the Ballot: The Often Overlooked Judicial Races
An interesting detour in the conversation touched on judicial elections, specifically mentioning Judge Kelly Johnson and her support for the service industry during COVID-19 restrictions. This brief discussion underscored several important points:
Down-Ballot Importance: The show emphasized the need for voters to engage with judicial retention votes.
Local Impact: Judge Johnson's ruling against county COVID-19 restrictions was presented as an example of how judicial decisions directly affect local businesses and residents.
Civic Engagement: The segment highlighted the importance of understanding and participating in all aspects of local governance, including the judiciary.
This brief focus on judicial elections raised important questions about the judiciary's role in local governance and the public's understanding of these often overlooked races. However, the discussion didn't delve into the complexities of judicial independence and the potential issues with politicizing judicial roles.
In conclusion, the "Jump in Tucson" episode provided a multifaceted look at Tucson and Pima County's current political landscape. By weaving together historical parallels, financial critiques, and calls for civic engagement, the show presented a city's narrative at a crossroads, with the upcoming election as a potential turning point.
While the discussion raised many crucial issues, it also left room for a deeper exploration of the complexities and nuances of local governance, urban development, and the interplay between national and local politics. As Tucson voters approach this critical election, they would be well-served to seek out diverse perspectives and dig deeper into the issues raised in this compelling, if partisan, radio discussion.
🦉 Three Sonorans Commentary
🌵 Unmasking the Old Pueblo's Political Mirage: A Progressive Chicano Perspective on "Jump in Tucson"
In the scorching heat of Arizona's political landscape, where mirages of simple solutions dance on the horizon, the conservative voices of "Jump in Tucson" attempt to paint a deceptively straightforward picture of our complex civic challenges. As we at Three Sonorans tune in, we find ourselves compelled to peel back the layers of this narrative, exposing the underlying issues that demand our attention and the voices that too often go unheard.
The Detroit-Tucson Fallacy: A Tale of False Equivalence
While superficially intriguing, the show's attempt to draw parallels between Detroit and Tucson is a classic case of false equivalence that ignores the unique historical, cultural, and demographic realities of our beloved Old Pueblo.
Grant Krueger's statement, "I think that there's a lot more parallels than you might think," glosses over critical differences that shape our city's challenges and potential solutions.
Tucson, with its rich Chicano heritage, significant Native American population, and proximity to the U.S.-Mexico border, faces challenges that are fundamentally different from those of Detroit. Our story is one of colonization, resistance, and resilience – a narrative that cannot be simplified into a tale of industrial decline and revival.
The comparison ignores the ongoing struggles of Tucson's barrios, the fight against gentrification in historic Chicano neighborhoods, and the persistent inequalities faced by our Indigenous communities. When Krueger speaks of "civic pride," we must ask: whose pride, and at what cost?
Fiscal Responsibility or Social Negligence?
While raising valid questions about fiscal management, Steve Spain's critique of Pima County's finances presents a dangerously narrow view of governmental responsibility.
His statement, "They had managed to go from making $1.1 billion a year in revenue before this board came in to turning around right off the bat and spending just over $2 billion their first year," fails to consider the critical investments needed in our communities.
As progressives, we must challenge the notion that fiscal responsibility means austerity. In a city where many of our Chicano and Indigenous brothers and sisters struggle with poverty, lack of access to healthcare, and educational inequities, we need investment, not cuts. The actual deficit in Pima County is not just financial – it's a deficit of equity, opportunity, and justice.
The Private Sector Fallacy in Public Governance
The show's emphasis on private sector experience as a qualification for public office is deeply troubling.
Krueger's assertion that "Until you've paid a rent, a mortgage, made the payroll for hundreds of employees having to move heaven and earth from all of your corporate and personal finances, you may not fully understand what it's like to run a budget like that," reveals a fundamental misunderstanding of the purpose of government.
Public service is not about running a profitable business; it's about ensuring the well-being of all community members, especially the most vulnerable. The skills needed to maximize shareholder value are not the same as those required to address systemic racism, fight for environmental justice, or ensure equitable access to education and healthcare.
We need leaders who understand the lived experiences of our diverse communities, who have walked in the shoes of the marginalized, and who prioritize people over profits.
The Specter of Trumpism in Local Politics
Perhaps most alarming is the show's apparent embrace of the "Trump effect" on local politics.
Spain's comment, "I do think that instead of being a headwind, that will be a bit of a tailwind this time," about the impact of national Republican politics on local elections is a chilling reminder of the creep of extremism into our local governance.
As a community that has long stood against the border wall, fought for the rights of immigrants, and resisted the militarization of our homeland, we cannot allow the divisive and often racist rhetoric of national politics to poison our local discourse. The normalization of Trumpism at the local level poses a direct threat to our Chicano communities, our immigrant neighbors, and the very fabric of our multicultural society.
Judicial Overreach and Public Health
The brief mention of Judge Kelly Johnson's ruling against COVID-19 restrictions is particularly troubling. While framed as a victory for local businesses, it ignores the public health implications and the disproportionate impact of the pandemic on communities of color.
Our Chicano and Indigenous communities have been hit hard by COVID-19, exacerbating existing health disparities rooted in systemic racism and economic inequality. Celebrating judicial decisions that prioritize business interests over public health is a slap in the face to those who have lost loved ones and continue to struggle with the long-term effects of the virus.
A Vision for a Just and Equitable Tucson
As we look to Tucson's future, we must envision a path that embraces our diversity, addresses systemic inequalities, and builds a sustainable economy that works for all residents. This vision must include:
Honoring and preserving our Chicano and Indigenous heritage in the face of gentrification and cultural erasure.
Investing in affordable housing to combat displacement in historic barrios.
Developing robust, accessible public transportation to connect all parts of our community, especially underserved areas.
Creating green infrastructure to address climate change, improve air quality in low-income neighborhoods, and create sustainable jobs for our communities.
Ensuring educational equity to close the achievement gap and celebrate our multicultural heritage in our schools.
Implementing community policing reforms to address systemic racism and build trust between law enforcement and communities of color.
Protecting and expanding voting rights ensures all voices, especially historically marginalized ones, are heard in our democratic process.
Promoting environmental justice to address the disproportionate impact of pollution and climate change on our barrios and Native lands.
In conclusion, while "Jump in Tucson" presents a narrative of change, it threatens to leave many Tucsonans behind, particularly those from our Chicano and Indigenous communities. Progressives must counter this narrative with a vision of inclusive growth, social justice, and environmental sustainability.
The Old Pueblo's true revival will not come from mimicking other cities, embracing austerity, or importing divisive national politics. It will come from harnessing the strength of our diverse community, honoring our unique cultural heritage, and building a future that works for all – from the barrios to the boardrooms.
¡La lucha sigue! The struggle continues, and together, we will shape a Tucson representing the best of our diverse, vibrant, and just community.
If you enjoyed this article, buy us a cup of coffee! We 🤎☕‼️
👯 People Mentioned
Grant Krueger: Host of "Jump in Tucson," originally from Detroit. Quote: "I had the great pleasure this weekend of having my folks come in to visit from Detroit, Michigan."
Larry Krueger: Grant's father, visiting from Detroit. No direct quotes.
Steve Spain: Republican candidate for Pima County Supervisor, District 1. Quote: "I knew from a very early age I was going to be in IT. Please don't hold that against me listeners."
Rex Scott: Incumbent Pima County Supervisor for District 1 (Democrat). No direct quotes.
Jared Goff: Detroit Lions quarterback, mentioned in context of Detroit's civic pride. No direct quotes.
Judge Kelly Johnson: Local judge mentioned for her support of the service industry during COVID-19 restrictions. No direct quotes.
Robert Brutonville: Arizona Supreme Court Justice, mentioned as retiring. No direct quotes.
Vince Leach, Justine Wadzak, Juan Ciscomani, Kathleen Nguyen: Mentioned in context of Republican primary divisions. No direct quotes.
Chris DeSimone: Another radio host on the same station. No direct quotes.
🧐 Propaganda AI-nalysis
The "Jump in Tucson" show employs several propaganda techniques to promote a conservative political agenda:
Bandwagon: Emphasizing the importance of voter engagement and predicting Republican victories to create a sense of inevitable change.
Plain Folks: Presenting Steve Spain as a relatable figure with a background in IT and hospitality to appeal to average voters.
Testimonial: Using Grant Krueger's personal connection to Detroit to lend credibility to the idea of urban revival under new leadership.
Transfer: Drawing parallels between Detroit's comeback and Tucson's potential to transfer positive associations.
Glittering Generalities: Using vague, positive terms like "fiscal responsibility" and "job creation" without specific details.
Scapegoating: Blaming current Pima County leadership for perceived financial mismanagement.
Simplification: Presenting complex urban and financial issues in simplified terms that may oversimplify nuanced topics.
Fear Appeal: Implying that without change, Tucson may face dire financial straits similar to Detroit's past.
Repetition: Consistently reiterating key points about deficit spending and the importance of voting.
Card Stacking: Selectively presenting information that supports their narrative while omitting potential counterarguments or alternative perspectives.
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