Is Andy Shallal the next Bill de Blasio?
If yesterday’s WTU-sponsored town hall event is any sign of things to come, then the 2014 D.C. mayoral race will turn out a “game changer” in the education reform landscape within the nation’s capital. Although education reform in D.C. is often a one-sided debate, one candidate is separating himself from the pack by challenging the core beliefs of the current reform system. Since most candidates toe the education reform party line, Andy Shallal has the potential to drastically alter the current mayoral race. While Andy Shallal has yet to become a political household name, his proposals can literally change the face of education reform in D.C.
During the town hall event, seven D.C. mayoral candidates took center stage to discuss their views on the District’s public education policies. Although the audience, at times, was boisterous, the sentiment in the auditorium was clearly pro public education. The mayoral candidates in attendance included Mayor Vincent Gray, restaurateur Andy Shallal, Councilmember Tommy Wells, Councilmember Vincent Orange, Councilmember Jack Evans, former State Department official Reta Jo Lewis, and former D.C. contractor Christian Carter. In my opinion, here’s a brief breakdown of the candidates’ performances:
D.C. Mayor Vincent Gray (Incumbent):
D.C. Mayor Vincent Gray holds several advantages over the other candidates in the current