Mayor Rocky Anderson clearly commits himself to what he believes. You know his position on an issue and you know he will stand for it. I marvel how the public complains about waffling and often spineless leaders we have but when one takes a stand the public is inclined to attack the style of standing for something. We seem to want strong leaders who don't act like it. Those who say Mayor Anderson should not participate in protests when the President comes really ask the mayor to not be himself. Some say just good manners would dictate Anderson just sit quiet. The votes of Salt Lake City residents to date gives Anderson the message that they like him for being him. Do we really want politicians who act as chameleons changing with the political wind?

A curious side issue is why convention sponsors invite the mayor in the first place. Everybody knows Anderson is passionate, outspoken, and anti-Bush. Do you really think President Bush is innocent and naive that some city mayors disagree with him? Do you really think he cares much that Anderson may protest his policies? Just don't invite Anderson to greet him. Let the mayor stand in the protest zones like any other citizen.

It's not like the Republicans in this state haven't practiced snubbing the opposition before. Remember when Colin Powell came to Utah to kick off his public service organization campaign? Utah was the only state that didn't invite Democrats to the local events. Some took satisfaction in Boy Scouts sending back award certificates solely because Bill Clinton signed them. The self righteousness felt good in those days. After all, it was a Democrat being disrespected.

I have heard former Senator Jake Garn speak multiple times over the last few years. He beams while telling entertaining stories of how he fought with the feds on a personal, tough level. Just ask him about the rubber stamp used to respond to federal agencies as Salt Lake City mayor that said "bull --". He gets a pass on the style because he is majority party.

Nothing in any constitution says you give up your opinions and speech rights when you are elected mayor. Similarly, being elected mayor doesn't excuse him from the rule of politics. Anderson takes risks when he crosses into protesting. If your style is offensive enough, you'll be eliminated at the ballot box.

Let's settle down and count our blessings. First, we have a politician who says what he thinks and backs it up. Second, he may be ruder to the President than you or I might be, but no other leader around here generates a discussion to hold this President accountable for anything. Third, you get something to grouse about for a few weeks. Fourth, if you don't like him, this kind of behavior will eliminate him from office. Fifth, we all can take some smug pride in a country where a mayor can protest. That is how it all works.