Because Uptown Almanac is An Esteemed Source of Political Journalism (or something), our inbox is flooded with a torrent of statements and press releases from various politicians and other such humanoids. Most are forgettable, gutless platitudes that only a middling Democrat could possibly grind out. However, yesterday's series of statements on the BART strike carried with them a distinct feeling of déjà vu.
Take Senator Leland Yee's statement, dumped out around noon yesterday:
“I stand with BART employees in their efforts for a fair contract. BART Management needs to understand the importance of worker safety and get back to the table and negotiate in good faith. A quick, fair resolution to this conflict is in everybody’s best interest.”
Then, a hair over four hours later, Supervisor Campos churned out a nearly identical quote—some segments ripped off in their entirety:
“I support the efforts of BART employees to secure a fair contract. BART Management needs to get back to the table and negotiate in good faith. BART management also needs to address the workers’ crucial safety concerns. A fast and fair resolution to this conflict is of the utmost importance to the entire Bay Area community. Riders need a dependable public transportation system and workers need a safe workplace.”
Is it plagarism? Lazy regurgitation of party talking points? A simple #oops?