The Oklahoman reports that Oklahoma City Mayor Mick Cornett endorsed U.S. Rep. Ernest Istook for governor. Cornett, a reasonably popular mayor, can only hurt his political chances with such an endorsement.

Istook is not nearly as popular; even though he’s handily one re-election to his seat the last several election cycles, that’s been more a function of his political might and bankroll scaring off potential opponents. As the gubernatorial campaign descends in the expected throes of mudslinging between opponents, as more voters learn about Istook’s voting record and his stand on many issues, his popularity will decline even further.

Cornett, then, can only be dragged down by Istook — at least in popularity. On the other hand, this endorsement could be “nod” toward the good ole boy network needed to make a serious run toward taking over Istook’s seat. Istook has the connections and the bribery lobbyist contribution base to help a designate heir win the seat.
What clued me in that he has sold his soul? This quote in the article:
The renaissance of Oklahoma City has coincided with Ernest’s common-sense conservative service in the U.S. Congress… That’s no coincidence. Without his hard work and selfless effort, Oklahoma City would not be the vibrant city that we are today.
The renaissance of Oklahoma City is due to the visionary leadership of city leaders prior to Cornett and Istook and to the taxpayers of Oklahoma City. Istook deserves very little credit. It is indeed a coincidence that he was in office at the time of this renaissance and it’s certainly not due to his “common-sense conservative service in the U.S. Congress.” The last line of that quote just makes my stomach turn. Istook has been working as hard for his mecca, Salt Lake City, as he has for his constituents in Oklahoma City.

But all’s fair in love and politics (including hyperbolic rhetoric and stretching the truth), Istook responded with his own love:
Mayor Cornett has earned the respect of everyone with his leadership, following a tradition of solid leaders in our capital city.
Even if he doesn’t run for Istook’s seat, Cornett has lost my support for his politic future, whatever that may be. I don’t like politicians who sell their souls to the god of politics — isn’t that right, Sen. McCain? (But that’s for another post.)


(Originally posted here)