Dear Editor,
I’m writing to express my deep disappointment and concern regarding Kevin’s recent piece, “Mayoral Meltdown.” From the inflammatory title to the condescending tone and personal attacks, the article crossed the line from commentary into character assault.
As a reader — and as a woman — I found it deeply uncomfortable to read, especially on the same day the President of Mexico was assaulted on camera. In that broader context, the belittling and gendered language to demean a woman in public office is not only irresponsible, it’s dangerous.
The words used in that column were vile and unnecessary, attempting to disguise misogyny and resentment as intellectual critique. Education should never be used as a weapon of superiority — particularly against a resoundingly popular and effective mayor who has shown far more leadership and grace than many of her critics.
Let’s not forget: in 2020, when this same author faced criticism over his own response to the Santa Monica unrest, the only “meltdowns” the community witnessed were his own (before he abandoned his city and resigned in disgrace), making the hypocrisy in this recent column all the more galling.
This was not an op-ed. It was a disgusting display of misogyny that Lana and her family, friends, and colleagues did not deserve to encounter in their local paper. But I hope there’s a lesson to be learned: Kevin no longer has a place in Santa Monica politics. His actions have already revealed his character — and he forfeited his voice the moment he resigned.
Sincerely,
Jenny Rice