Messer declares.

The News and Tribune observes that Jack Messer's New Albany mayoral run (as an independent) was not an easy choice‎, because of the "controversy that has surrounded him after comments he made about civil rights last year."

Two local television stations covered yesterday's announcement. In an illustration of spin put to use, note the difference in their web site headers. WDRB plays is straight, with "New Albany police officer to announce candidacy for mayor‎," while WAVE inserts the "r" word: Police officer accused of racism to announce run for New Albany mayor‎.

In like fashion, I might have chosen to title this post, "From within a gated, razor-wired compound, populist Jack Messer declares for mayor." It would be true, but also slightly misleading.

Make no mistake. I already have a candidate, but I like Jack, and my mind is open to what he has to say. To me, it's less a case of him explaining the alleged racial comments than addressing his quirky, declining and occasionally outright weird city council report card over the past year, and illuminating his brief dalliance with the GOP's Dave Matthews before eventually landing in the mayor's race as an independent.

Speaking personally, I sincerely hope Jack addresses these matters himself, in due time, and -- this one is especially important to me -- in his own words. Consequently, readers are advised to pay close attention to Jack's emerging social media campaign. Deftly exercised, social media might make his bid. Ham-fisted, it could just as easily break it. I have a good feeling about the next few months, in the sense that Jack Messer and Jeff Gahan will offer much for voters to consider.

As for D.M. Bagshaw, he remains a blank slate. As for persistent rumors that Doug England will conjure a way to re-enter the mayor's race as an independent, let's hope not.

Note: Messer's web site is up, although not all hyperlinks are active.