In short, says Democratic political consultant Michael Goldman, Turner has worked the press like a pro. “He understands,” says Goldman, “that the louder you are, the more you give people pause for thought — the more you say you’re the victim, the more likely the media is to be cowed.”
If you’re still not convinced that Turner knows exactly what he’s doing, consider some telling remarks he made during a November 26 press conference at his district office, in Roxbury’s Dudley Square neighborhood. Surrounded by 60 or so supporters, many of whom hoisted homemade signs (WE SUPPORT CHUCK, CHUCK IS THE ONLY POLITICIAN I’VE EVER TRUSTED), Turner invoked a sports metaphor as his speech neared its close. “I just feel blessed to be used by our Creator to be able to focus attention on the question of whether I’m a criminal — but then flip it,” he said. “You know, in jujitsu, the energy comes at you — and then you flip the energy so it goes back on those who are against you.” There was laughter, then applause. Turner was smiling.
To read the “Don’t Quote Me” blog, go to thePhoenix.com/medialog. Adam Reilly can be reached at areilly@phx.com.
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