Mayor Nirenberg Checks Out Early, Leaving San Antonio to Face Looming Crisis Alone: Why Dr. Tim Westley Is the Leader We Need
By Tim Westley, PhD.
September 16, 2024
As San Antonio grapples with significant challenges—public safety concerns, workforce shortages, a homelessness crisis, inadequate public transportation, and mounting economic uncertainties—Mayor Ron Nirenberg appears to have checked out early. His focus has seemingly shifted from local governance to his next political ambition. Nirenberg, who is nearing the end of his term, has taken up a new role as a surrogate for Vice President Kamala Harris’ campaign, effectively leaving San Antonio to fend for itself as he pursues a national platform.
Nirenberg’s new responsibilities on the campaign trail involve appearances at rallies and voters’ homes in swing states, along with national TV interviews to promote Harris’ presidential ticket. "In the weeks to come, it’s just going to ramp up in terms of frequency and intensity. Essentially, any free time I have, we’re trying to fill it with surrogate activities," Nirenberg was quoted as saying. With a large portion of his time now devoted to this role, it’s clear that his priorities no longer lie with the people of San Antonio.
Even more concerning, Nirenberg has fully embraced partisan politics as his tenure winds down. Despite his previous claims of being an Independent, Nirenberg has now openly aligned with the Democratic Party, declaring, “I’m a Democrat… It is very clear that the Democratic Party is the only party of solutions to the challenges that we’re facing in America right now.” This declaration feels like a slap in the face to the many San Antonians who do not identify as Democrats, particularly Republicans who support lower taxes, government conservatism, free-market capitalism, and traditional family values.
Nirenberg’s remarks signal a departure from his duty to represent all of San Antonio's residents, regardless of political affiliation. His divisive rhetoric, including calling Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump a “clown” at a recent convention, has insulted thousands of Republican voters in the city. Unfortunately, none of the current city council members have spoken out against Nirenberg’s remarks or addressed his glaring absence while he campaigns for Vice President Harris.
In the midst of Nirenberg’s distraction, San Antonio faces a critical threat to its economy: the potential loss of Southwest Airlines. The airline, a vital contributor to the city’s economy and air travel infrastructure, is reportedly considering relocating. Nirenberg could be leading efforts to prevent this, yet he’s nowhere to be found. By acting as a mediator between the airline and local stakeholders, and leveraging economic incentives like tax abatements or grants, Nirenberg could work to keep Southwest Airlines rooted in San Antonio. But instead, he’s more focused on climbing the national political ladder than saving local jobs or preventing a significant economic downturn.
As the Mayor pursues his Washington D.C. dreams, San Antonio’s growing homelessness crisis, rising crime rates, economic troubles, and transportation inefficiencies persist. The leadership vacuum left by Nirenberg’s early check-out is widening every day, and the city is left without a clear direction. It’s time to look forward and elect a leader who is fully committed to solving San Antonio’s pressing challenges—someone who will be present and accountable.
Dr. Tim Westley stands as that leader. His fresh perspective, paired with a deep understanding of San Antonio’s needs, positions him as the right choice to guide the city through these turbulent times while driving economic growth.