Current Mayor Michael Nutter has been in the news several times either speaking about his concerns for prisoners in the Philadelphia system or addressing them directly. It’s probably a very small part of his work time, and in the end it may prove largely ineffective. But have previous Philadelphia Mayors been as vocal as Nutter? I can’t remember any that have.
It’s been in the news before, but Nutter is probably a bit more confident in his ability to discuss the subject. I am 42, and remember back to Mayor Goode talking about the same issues in the mid 80’s.
I think this issue is a bit tough for GQ section here at the dope, as it’s more about metering a discussion on the subject.
Your hunch is probably correct, though: No other mayor was as vocal. Doesn’t mean it wasn’t brought up, but Nutter is probably more vocal/open and less apologetic (a key) for bringing up the subject.
I appreciate your contribution. I’m 49 and lived across the river in NJ for years. I don’t remember Wilson Goode’s contributions to the discussion, but perhaps I’m more politically aware now.