I’m voting for Obama tomorrow. But as I live in District 2, I don’t have a voice in the commission race. Also, it’s a tremendous regret on my part that, because of another major project, I haven’t been able to spend time with all these candidates.

Since returning to City Hall in 2005, William Bell has been a good councilor, but next to that crowd, it’s hard not to look good. He’s mellowed some and the county commission would probably be a good place for him. Since returning to the council, Bell has proven to be a peacemaker and a negotiator. While most councilors are trying to start fires, Bell is best at putting them out.

As a city hall reporter, I don’t know Orville Ifill that well, but he has a good reputation. I wouldn’t want to slight him by supporting Bell.

That said, the Birmingham News endorsement has been the Kiss of Death, as Mayor Kincaid used to call it. I suspect at the end of the day tomorrow, Bell will win this one walking away, or at the very least, lead the race into a runoff.