DFO: Yes, Gookin Can Win

Count me among those who believe that OpenCDAer Dan Gookin can defeat incumbent Councilwoman Deanna Goodlander in a municipal election this November. Unlike many challengers, Gookin has gained name recognition from his role as one of the main opponents to the Lake City Development Corp. and ongoing favorable treatment in the Coeur d’Alene Press. Gookin is organized and campaigns hard. He also has a group of Tea Bag conservatives in his corner who covet a seat on the council (as well as want to defeat Mike Kennedy). Gookin closed well in his 2007 campaign against popular Councilman Ron Edinger, losing by only 366 votes (2626 to 2260). He will appeal to those who are anti-incumbent, those who oppose urban renewal efforts, those who oppose the proposed 2% property tax hike when many city department heads are being paid handsomely, and those who simply would like to see an outsider on the council. On the other hand, Goodlander is considered the weakest link among the three council incumbents that are likely to win re-election. She’ll have to campaign hard to retain the seat/ DFO .