Amidst the buzz over the encouraging elections on the East Coast, it was easy to overlook the Grand Rapids City Commission election. However, Grand Rapidians finally get a voice of reason for the City Commission. Last night, Dave Shaffer staged an upset victory over the union apostle James Jendrasiak. Shaffer polled second in the primary election back in August, setting up a general election face-off against Jendrasiak. In an excruciatingly close finish, Shaffer received 140 more votes than Jendrasiak (51% to 49%). This close finish is a testament to the Shaffer supporters who voted for him yesterday. Clearly, the enthusiasm to bring reason to the City Commission prevailed over union allegiance.

Hopefully, all of the elections yesterday will provide a shot in the arm to competent government. I personally appreciate that in one year's time, reason is replacing passion and meaningful policy debates are replacing nonsensical chants for change.