Jerry Brown - Again

Early today I sent a glib Facebook update from a house party fundraiser for Attorney General Jerry Brown (not Gerry as I wrote in the post). So here are my thoughts on Jerry.

• The guy is really smart and has an incredible, detailed knowledge of the issues that face our state.
• He's thought a lot about these issues, and without downplaying the complexity of the problems, actually has some solutions. I left feeling somewhat optimistic about our state for the first time in a while. When he didn't have an solution, he'd tell you.
• Ideas get him excited.
• He came across as tough, funny, self-effacing, acerbic, smart, and genuine. I usually think the most genuine candidates wins.
• At 71, he looks great. Trim, athletic, and energetic
• Hasn't come up with an overarching idea or message for his campaign. OK, he hasn't announced yet, but an overarching idea of what his campaign is about and why he should be governor is crucial. Meg Whitman already has a theme.