[John.Galt2012]

Well, maybe if we can get all these “firsts” out of the way, we can go back to hiring and electing people based on their merit and qualifications. I personally would hate to be the first of a race, sex, orientation, etc. to “accomplish” something that was based entirely on the decision of the public at large because I would never really know if they selected because I was the best qualified or because I would be the first...know what I mean?

[Tolerance Sucks Rocks]

You got that right. Imagine if I were the first nerd to be elected mayor of a large city. Would it be because of intense lobbying and social pressure by the nerd/geek/dork community, or because of my merits? Who knows.

[trumandogz]

Well, maybe if we can get all these “firsts” out of the way, we can go back to hiring and electing people based on their merit and qualifications.

Could you please explain to me how Gene Locke was of greater merit or qualification than Mayor Elect Parker?