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Although he is my chapter Brother, I think I can be objective as a native Washingtonian.
Marion Barry was not a good administrator -- that is the reason why the city is in the poor shape that its in now. However, he was an excellent friend to the people and delivered services to the youth and the elderly. The elderly in DC have traditionally voted in large numbers, especially in the more impoverished areas, like Ward 8.
The DC schools were high achieving the the 80's when Barry was mayor...why? I don't know. We had several Blue Ribbon schools and lots of programs for students, like study abroad and minimal cost to students.
I think that reality just caught up with the city. Had Barry been a smarter administrator and less of a friend/crony, we would be in better shape.
But I can't be mad at his supporters....he's the only politician in this town who has actually delivered his promises to poor people.
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