The Political Landscape:

Former Newport Beach Mayor Steve Rosansky turned his chair over to successor Ed Selich Tuesday night and called the rehabilitation home debacle that has dogged him in recent months “one of the thorniest issues our town has ever faced.”

Rehab home activists who have continually accused Rosansky of having a monetary interest in the rehabilitation industry in Newport Beach over the past months were noticeably silent on the matter Tuesday, instead focusing their energy on a proposed ordinance to curb the spread of rehab homes. The activists say the new rules aren’t strict enough to get rid of what they see as an over-concentration of homes in the community.

Rosansky waxed lyrically over what he viewed as his greatest achievements as mayor, including brokering a $43-million development agreement with the Irvine Co. and the construction of a new Fire Station in Santa Ana Heights.

“It’s been a great year as mayor,” Rosansky said. “What’s the most difficult thing about being the mayor of Newport Beach is not satisfying the needs, it’s satisfying the wants.”

Selich has his job cut out for him. The new mayor inherits a city divided over where to build the next city hall, and the heated debate over rehab homes.

“Move over, son,” Rosansky said to Selich as he gave up his chair.

WHO’S ENDORSING WHOM?

Many local officials are dragging their feet on picking a presidential candidate to pin their hopes on.

County Supervisor John Moorlach said he’s still isn’t “signing any postcards” for a presidential hopeful, but he’s “leaning toward” former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee.

“Ideologically, he’s the closest candidate to me,” said Moorlach, who was seen at a Huckabee fundraiser earlier this year at the home of big Newport GOP donor Buck Johns.

Newport Beach Councilman Steve Rosansky announced his endorsement for former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani last month, and Councilman Keith Curry said he is lending his support to former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney. Councilman Don Webb said he has made it a matter of practice not to endorse anyone or anything, except a few local issues. He also likes to keep his vote between him and the ballot box.

Newport Beach Council members Nancy Gardner, Michael Henn, Leslie Daigle and Mayor Ed Selich did not respond to the question.