News-Record.com

You saw the Charlotte Observer's endorsement of Jim Black's opponent, Hal Jordan.

Recently, the Charlotte Post spoke up for the embattled speaker of the N.C. House.

The Charlotte Post calls itself "the only minority owned, locally published communication that specifically targets the African American community."

Its view really encapsulates what's wrong with our political system: the willingness to accept tawdry means to accomplish preferred ends.

The Charlotte Post fears the repercussions if Black loses his House seat or his job as speaker:

"If he's replaced after eight years in the top position, millions of dollars in state funding that has flowed this way to pay for programs ranging from extra district attorneys to marketing the CIAA basketball tournament will be jeopardized. For a region that receives precious little relative to its tax contributions to North Carolina, slowing that reciprocation from Raleigh puts Mecklenburg in a precarious spot.

"On the legislative side, replacing Mr. Black would have consequences for African Americans. Depending on who took the gavel, the drawing of legislative districts could dilute the voting strength of African Americans and make us less a player in competitive districts. If a Republican or more conservative Democrat takes over, black legislators, who hold key committee assignments now, would also lose their standing in the House hierarchy. That makes it more difficult for their voices to be heard during the introduction and debate over bills."

Legitimate needs should be funded. Qualified legislators should be placed in key committee assignments. Why does it require corrupt leadership to make those things happen?

The Charlotte Post editorial doesn't exactly endorse Black. The writers understand that, even if he regains his seat Tuesday, he's not very likely to return as speaker. If he's indicted, he may not serve in the House again at all.

But the Post's lamentation over the possible loss of this mighty politician doesn't impress me. Black should have stepped down months ago. The integrity of the legislative process should be seen as more important than the political or monetary benefits that an all-powerful speaker can provide for people and causes he favors.