ALLAN MANSOOR
In response to Geoff West's letter to the editor Sunday ("Criticism
shows man behind the curtain"), I really don't know where to start.
West's claims are not only ridiculous but are also a libelous
personal attack against my character and that of Eric Bever. I was
surprised that the Pilot even printed such unsubstantiated baloney
that tries to paint me, Chris Steel and Eric Bever as a group that
does M.H. Millard's bidding.
Quite honestly, I was not even going to get involved in this
upcoming election, but when someone questions my character with
unfounded rhetoric, that's going too far. Everyone knows I am friends
with Eric Bever and that I would like to see him win, but I would
have to work with whoever gets elected, so I was not going to endorse
anyone.
West has changed all of that. When Eric Bever decides to make his
official campaign announcement, he has my full support and
endorsement. I think West's comments tell us a lot about himself and
the candidates he will support this fall.
So, let's have a look at some of the candidates and the issues
that will be coming before us very shortly. After all, even Daily
Pilot Managing Editor S.J. Cahn said recently that during the last
election the issues were not addressed sufficiently.
West argued that Eric Bever and Chris Steel will "carry his
(Millard's) banner," and that along with Allan Mansoor they would
"implement his grand plan for the expulsion of Latino immigrants in
our midst."
Even West's letter acknowledged that "Millard's letter clearly
shows his viewpoint." For the record, it is illegal immigration of
any type that I am against, and I have complete respect for people of
any national origin when they come here legally, as both of my
parents did. I believe Eric Bever holds the same view.
I have also disagreed with Millard on numerous issues and been the
focal point of his criticism, as has Eric Bever. But let's get back
to the candidates and the issues, and where we differ. I say the
following with complete respect for anyone who runs for office, but I
am going to call it like I see it. West mentioned Chris Steel. Let me
just come out and say it. I cannot and will not support Chris Steel.
Chris Steel has flip-flopped on so many issues I cannot keep
track.
First, he was for 1901 Newport, then against a revised version of
it. Now, he's voted for it again. Mr. Steel will bring an issue
forward and then vote against it. He will say something like: "I
don't like this, but I am going to vote for it anyway" or "I like
