News arrives today that local community activist and media personality David "Zuma Dogg" Saltsburg plans to run for Mayor in the 2013 Los Angeles Mayoral election. According to his blog, Zuma Dogg plans to file his papers today to enter the race.
I first met Zuma Dogg in 2009 when we were both filing papers to run for Mayor against Antonio Villaraigosa. I badly underestimated Zuma Doggs popularity, which had been achieved through a combination of years of blogging, community activism, City Hall public commentary, and various other media appearances. Zuma Dogg took fourth place in the 2009 Mayoral election, garnering over 9,000 votes.
Do I think Zuma Dogg will be successful in 2013 ? No.
The 2013 race for Mayor will be a different story. It will be filled with heavy hitters. Career politicians looking to pad their resumé. Zev Yaroslavsky is a heavy favorite due to his status of serving over two decades as an elected official. City Council President Eric Garcetti is another big name who seeks the office. Controller Wendy Greuel is a little bit of a longshot, but she knows how to utilize the media and how to launch attacks that damage the credibility of her opponents. Rumors are that City Council Member Jan Perry (a.k.a. "The Hamburglar") may have to drop her run for Mayor and instead focus on the race for Controller.
And this is all without mentioning multi-millionaire developer Rick Caruso, who could spend unlimited personal funds on this race.
However, I am happy to see Zuma Dogg enter the race.
It sets up a titanic showdown in the future.
At some point in the 2013 race, there will be a forum/debate in the Valley. Dangerous Enemy of Freedom Judy Price will try to have certain candidates removed. Zuma Dogg will be able to argue that he has received more votes for Mayor than any of the candidates running. He can even brag about his fourth place finish in 2009.
I already have the blog title ready...
"Zuma Dogg vs. Judy Price: An Epic Struggle for Freedom"
