Endorsements come in many shapes and forms. We have primarily focused on group and organizational endorsements as well as the Houston Chronicle, up to this point.
Today, we’ll speak to individual endorsements. Many candidates gather endorsements from individuals and these often come with an extended meaning for others. For example, Mayor Parker garnered the endorsement of former Mayor Bob Lanier for her re-election effort. Since he actively campaigned against her in the previous election, this is a sign that he approves of the job she is doing now and helps her to raise money. His endorsement carries clout with both donors and the public.
Some individual endorsements simply help candidates in their fundraising. The names that appear on an invite to an event indicate the candidate’s base of support among donors and will help to generate more dollars. Often, when people see a name such as Ned Holmes on an invitation, they will follow his lead. He is a leading power broker in Houston politics.
Other individual endorsements may speak to a targeted community or a specific audience. Candidate for At-Large Position 5, Laurie Robinson, surprised many when she received the endorsement of Rev. Bill Lawson, Pastor Emeritus of Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church and respected civil rights leaders. His endorsement elevated her campaign in both the African-American and progressive communities. As well, it bolstered her campaign fundraising.
Some candidates collect endorsements from other Elected Officials. Kristie Thibault in At-Large 2 has been endorsed by a number of Democratic State Representatives. This has helped her to gain recognition across the city and credibility with minority communities.
Most pundits and analysts believe that individual endorsements carry more weight than organizational support.
Do endorsements matter? Some may influence voters. It all has to do with how the candidate maximizes the support by communication with their target audiences.
In conclusion, this analyst believes that Police, Fire, REALTORS, and a few others make a difference because of the support that follows their decision. Individuals often make a difference in tightly contested races and help to bolster fundraising prowess.
Voters are the ultimate decision makers and most base their decisions on a variety of factors. Democracy still rules the day.