On The Campaign Trail With Our Local Candidates

We’ve entered an election year and the campaign ads are mounting. Unlike LeBron’s head of hair, the ads will only grow thicker as the year goes on.

That in mind, let’s take a look at what political campaigns might look like for the state’s three major head coaches.

Chip Kelly – progressive liberal. Kelly is very forward thinking, as demonstrated by the offensive attacks his teams have put forth. He’s not afraid to buck convention and go against career politicians who are set in their ways. And in his short career, his style and methods have gotten results. The outlandish dress his region is known for may ruffle some feathers on the hill, but that is of no concern to him. He has also demonstrated the ability to generate revenue, whether through payouts for his success on the field or through private donations. This could buy him votes as we aim to get out of this recession. His best bet to win votes from the GOP is his friendly relationship with the military. Whether it be camo-inspired jerseys for the spring game or free tickets for service men and women, Kelly has shown an appreciation for our troops.

Nate McMillan – moderate/conservative. McMillan has moved toward the aisle in recent weeks. His previous track record in Portland had put McMillan among the most conservative of his colleagues. His value-every-possession approach was as far right as you could go. McMillan has listened to his youthful constituents this year, however, and has voted for a more free, liberal style of play. This year he has also quickly established a reputation as a problem solver. In a shortened period of time with some new key elements, he has established a successful unit early in the season. If he is able to tackle our national problems with this same efficiency, he could be looking at multiple terms in office. His nickname “Sarge” could also help win over pro-military voters, as will his decision – like Kelly – to offer free tickets to those who serve and protect the United States.

Mike Riley – conservative. Riley has proven he will take risks only in the direst situations. He has a plan of attack and he sticks to his guns, regardless what outsiders think. He is loyal to those around him, which some may see as a fault. Early in the latest season, he made some questionable decisions that likely scared off some voters. But he did not flip-flop on his choices: He stood by them. Now he expects those decisions to pay off in the immediate future. By all accounts, his prospects for the coming year are bright. For those who base their votes simply on the product the candidate has produced lately, Riley will likely finish last among these three candidates. But anyone who looks at the whole body of work will have to reconsider Riley as a candidate. And those who meet Riley on the campaign trail are even more likely to vote for him. It’s easy to envision Riley kissing babies and smiling for pictures with potential voters. Only one thing will set him apart from other politicians: His smile will be sincere.