MICHAEL WEINBAUM, San Clemente
I was saddened to read the recent articles about two of San Clemente’s leading lights, Alan Hostetter and Mayor Pro Tem Gene James, and their unfortunate legal woes: the former an indicted insurrectionist plotter (allegedly), and the latter sued for defamation after reportedly getting into an argument in a bar and then texting about it.
But, now that the City Council’s pathetic and wasteful (to taxpayers) effort to have James’ legal defense fees covered has been dispositively rejected, I have what I think is a good idea. James should do as Hostetter has done—go pro se.
I’m sure with James’ silver tongue and keen intellect, he would acquit himself as well in the courtroom, representing himself, as he has on behalf of the residents of San Clemente.