Des Moines Election Proves Once Again You Can't Fix Stupid

In the recent elections held in Des Moines, Iowa, voters re-elected incumbents Maria Alonzo and Skylar Mayberry-Mayes to the school board, despite controversies surrounding the hiring of Ian Roberts as superintendent of Des Moines Public Schools. Roberts, who was later revealed to be an illegal immigrant with a criminal record, had been appointed by the board in 2023. The board's decision to hire Roberts has drawn criticism, particularly after it was disclosed that he had previously lied about holding a doctoral degree and had a history of criminal charges, including possession of firearms as an illegal immigrant.

The re-election of Alonzo and Mayberry-Mayes has raised questions about accountability among voters in blue cities. Critics argue that the decision to retain these board members reflects a broader trend of disinterest in accountability among Democratic leaders. School Board Chairwoman Jackie Norris, who previously served as Michelle Obama’s chief of staff, called for “radical empathy” from the community in light of the scandal surrounding Roberts.

Roberts' hiring was part of a broader initiative by the school board to emphasize diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in its leadership. Teree Caldwell-Johnson, the former school board president, had highlighted the importance of DEI in the selection process, stating that the board aimed to deliver a diverse pool of candidates. However, critics contend that the board prioritized DEI credentials over thorough vetting of candidates, leading to the hiring of an individual with a troubling past.

Despite the backlash, the bond issue for a $265 million referendum to fund the district's educational initiatives passed with nearly three-quarters support from voters. This outcome suggests that many residents remain supportive of the school board's broader goals, even in light of the controversy surrounding Roberts.

Norris, who announced her campaign for U.S. Senate before the scandal broke, has since withdrawn her candidacy. Alonzo acknowledged during a candidates forum that the district's hiring processes could be improved and that transparency might enhance public trust. However, the re-election of the incumbents indicates that many voters may not prioritize these concerns.

The situation in Des Moines serves as a case study in the challenges of accountability within Democratic-led municipalities. Critics argue that the continued support for incumbents despite significant controversies reflects a willingness among some voters to overlook failures in governance. As the old adage goes, “you can’t fix stupid,” a sentiment echoed by those who believe that repeated electoral decisions in favor of the status quo may hinder progress and accountability.

Matt Kittle, a senior elections correspondent for The Federalist, emphasizes the need for voters to demand accountability from their elected officials, particularly in light of the recent events in Des Moines. The re-election of Alonzo and Mayberry-Mayes raises important questions about the priorities of voters in the city and the implications for future governance.