Wertheim
The news that ABQ attorney John Wertheim, a native New Mexican, is being tapped by Big Bill for the chairmanship of the NM Dem Party has been generally well-received. But, in politics there's always a but. In this case, it comes from those alligators in the Valley and some up North. "Why isn't a Hispanic getting the job?" moaned one. And: "The governor is campaigning around the country for Hispanics to vote Democrat, but he doesn't name one to head our party." barked another.

In a conversation Wednesday the chair-to-be- told me he will provide "inclusive" leadership, and don't be surprised if the next Vice- Chair of the party is Hispanic. "Under our rules we must have a woman as Vice-Chair. I don't know who that will be, but I would not rule out a woman who is Hispanic," Wertheim told me.

Current Vice-Chair Sam Bregman will be stepping aside come the April Dem convention where John will be anointed by the forces of Big Bill. Hispanics, of course, are a major force, in state Dem politics, and Wertheim's feelings shouldn't be hurt that he is being called into question. The same thing happened when Diane Denish was named chair.

Wertheim's wife, Bianca Ortiz-Wertheim, is a top aide to the Big Fella and John's family goes back in this state over a century. But he is now a major player in state politics, and the long knives will be out for him. Wertheim, who ran for Congress a couple of times, is nonplussed by it all. During our conversation he stayed firmly "on message." Like his Prez candidate John Kerry, Wertheim seemed to be saying "Bring it on." Don't worry, John. They will.

POLITICAL NIRVANA

"I feel like I'm in Heaven," exclaimed a giddy Bernalillo County District Attorney Kari Brandenburg from her downtown ABQ office . She was giving me her reaction to the news that she will have no Dem primary opponent and no General Election foe either. A free four year ride is a rarity in the high-profile DA's job, and Kari was relishing the moment. "I would like to say it's because we are all doing such a great job, and while I am very proud of my staff and pleased with our work, I don't think that is the only reason. I think my opponents knew they would face a tough campaign, and knew I would not back off," said Kari, whose father Jim served as DA back in the 70's. "I still lean on him. He gives me guidance."

Its all coming up roses for Brandenburg now, but her life has not been without trial. Widowed twice and divorced once, she battled back in a manner that let foes know she's the real deal. Not to mention, the money she could raise to fight any rival. She also keeps things in perspective. During our conversation she mentioned how well her children are doing as much as the free political ride she was getting. "I am so pleased with them and how they are doing," she said. The single mom says that she will still campaign for re-election. "It's still my responsibility to meet the people." But she said the free election ticket gives her time to get back in the courtroom and personally prosecute more cases. We suspect there will be no 'free ride' for those defendants.

SOME TEAM SPIRIT FOR YOUR CAMPAIGN OR BUSINESS

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(c)NM POLITICS WITH JOE MONAHAN 2004
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