The Free Press, Mankato, MN

Editorials

Related Photos

  • 26ed9-5.jpg

    26ed9-5.jpg

September 4, 2010

Our View: John Brady should resign as mayor

The Free Press

Mayor John Brady faces significant personal problems as he attempts to recover not only from his admitted alcoholism but from his recent arrest for drunken driving. As a result of the mayor’s actions, the city of Mankato faces significant problems as well if he remains in office.

Brady should be commended for admitting to his personal problems and his willingness to continue to serve while doing so. However, it would be best for the Mankato community if he made the decision to step down.

Fair or not, the narrative in the days ahead will follow him and by extension the city. As long as Brady is in the public spotlight as the city’s ceremonial head and chief representative, it will be remembered that he was arrested while driving three times over the legal limit for blood alcohol with an open bottle of vodka. That he drove on a Minneapolis freeway hitting at least two vehicles, thankfully without injury or death to others. And all while he was on a city-sponsored trip.

That is not the image the city can easily shrug off as community groups are working to solve Mankato’s problems — including the one of excessive drinking by young people and others.

Brady has represented the city well. He has been a good mayor. He has been a solid public servant. And he believes he can be an example for the city by beating back his demons while serving in public office. That is a commendable position.

But he shouldn’t be making the decision based on what’s best for him; he should also consider what is best for the city and the community. In fairness to Brady, he says his relapse was due to personal tragedies. However, in that context, his road to recovery will not be helped with additional pressures from this kind of spotlight.

It may be good for him and his recovery to try to keep his life normal, to maintain his personal responsibilities. After a time, when he has fully recovered and is stronger for it, he could run again and the people may appreciate a man who sacrificed and now wants another chance. But for now the city and community would be best served if he stepped down.

Text Only | Photo Reprints
Editorials