Shannon Reeves (young, black, Republican, NAACP chapter president, Oakland mayoral candidate) is on a local radio program right now. I'll make some notes here as I listen to him....
Grew up in Oakland. (as opposed to Jerry Brown, who moved there just a few years ago)
He's an ex-Democrat. Worked on Jesse Jackson's campaign in college at Ramblin (?) State University in Louisiana. Later started first chapter of College Republicans there.
Was told if he switched to the Democratic party, he'd have a good shot at the mayoral race.
Got the cooperation of Chevron to build gas stations in Oakland to provide employment for parolees etc. They provide full service at self-service prices and are profitable.
He attributes his success so far to just doing as he was told growing up: Say no to drugs, do the right thing, get a higher education, give back to the community.
Reducing crime is the key to getting businesses to come to Oakland. Change has to come from the streets (no smell of urine when people get off Oakland BART stations, no loitering on the streets, etc)
Appreciates support of listeners. Asks for their prayers.
That's all I could get in between working and listening, but should give you a better idea of what he's about.
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