I do not have a problem with politicians who switch their political affiliation or philosophy. As a matter of fact, I said as much in my editorial last week in reference to New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie.
I do, however, have a problem with politicians who switch their party affiliation for all the wrong reasons such as self promotion, “playing politics,” or even one’s inability to communicate effectively with members of their initial party.
Switching party affiliation has to be a genuine move that is reflective of an individual’s overall stance on issues and their voting history. If a person does it for the wrong, selfish reasons, they really need to reevaluate the meaning of “public servant.”
I am not so sure City-County Councilor Jose Evans’ decision to leave the Democratic Party and become a Republican was one of sincerity or self promotion and frustration.
While I commend Democrats for taking the high road in their public responses to Evans’ departure, I think it’s also important to be honest and forthcoming.
For years, Evans has annoyed many Democratic politicians and city leaders with his in-your-face personality and overly aggressive ambition. He has turned many people off and burned some bridges. I have heard this from many people – Black and white – who represent vast backgrounds.
In knowing Evans, I can say he has a very assertive personality and when speaking about or pursuing something he believes in, his passion can be off-putting.
Years ago, when he served as the executive director of the Indiana Commission on the Social Status of Black Males, I can recall a meeting I had with Evans in his office. During that meeting, Evans’ passion for change and righting wrongs was evident. It was something I respected about him and thought could take him far in his future pursuits … if he worked on his methodology and delivery.
I specifically remember telling him in that meeting (and another meeting years later) that he was going to have to tone things down some and practice a bit of decorum because barking at someone or being so consumed with his own ideas or the way he would execute those ideas that he doesn’t consider other people’s perspectives could hurt him in his pursuits. People, specifically one’s counterparts, don’t like to be talked at; they want to converse with and be openly engaged in ideas, discussions and initiatives.
I don’t think Evans took heed to my advice because several years later the murmurs of disdain and dissatisfaction for Evans were evident by his political and community peers.
In the world of politics and even leadership, one has to be open-minded and receptive to the perspectives of others. The concept of “I, me, and mine” cannot exist. Nor can selfish tendencies or arrogant behavior.
Politically, I really don’t know how Evans’ conversion will fair with his constituents or the people who worked alongside him during his campaigns. Many people don’t like flip-floppers, and this precedent can especially ring true in the African-American community.
The way Evans handles things relative to the City-County Council in the near future will play a significant role in whether or not he gets reelected. The things he does hence forward will also influence the reception from the community in regards to any of his future plans or political aspirations.
This move was tricky and only time will tell if it pays off for Evans.
I respect Evans for having the guts to switch parties, as it was a risky move. Though, I must admit, it wasn’t a move that caught me off-guard, nor was it the least bit surprising.
If Evans felt he couldn’t shine under the spotlight of Council President Maggie Lewis or the other Democrats on the council, then he is sure to get it now as the only Black member of the Republican caucus on the council. I just hope Evans doesn’t become a mere Republican pawn, which we have seen time and time again on the national level.
Being the first or only of anything can be a lot of hard work and pressure. Is Evans up for the challenge?
Only time will tell.
You can email comments to Shannon Williams at shannonw@indyrecorder.com.
