Phoenix Suns great Kevin Johnson has been running to be elected mayor of Sacramento forever, seemingly. Battling a twice-elected incumbent (Heather Fargo), KJ couldn't manage 50% of the vote in the June primary, requiring Tuesday's run-off election. KJ did pull this one off, taking a 57%-42% with most ballots counted.While KJ's a favorite son, a family-oriented guy who came back once his basketball career ended to help fix local schools, it's going to be a bumper season for investigative journalism around the KJ administration. The number of scandals Candidate KJ has faced already is staggering. It's hard to describe how disliked Fargo; these results don't quite do the sentiment justice. KJ has been accused of covering up sexual harassment charges levied against him by a student when he was principal of Sacramento High School, is under federal investigation for missteps with his educational foundation, has been accused of being a slumlord, and just last week was found to be inside City Hall after hours without reason ... sitting in the mayor's chair. And he still won by 15%. That's how badly the locals wanted KJ elected.
Charles Barkley campaigned locally for KJ a good deal, and Shaquille O'Neal made a trip as well. The city isn't likely to be terribly involved in the ongoing arena issue for the Kings, but KJ certainly can't hurt in his capacity. He's a good friend of the Maloof brothers. Heck, maybe he can suit up for the upcoming homestands? The team could use him.
