An unabashed optimist backed by many of the community's most recognizable citizens, Brown offers only kind words for and high praise of the council, deflecting criticisms as unfounded or overblown. In a rare moment, Brown branded Enriquez a confrontational liberal. Unafraid of confrontation, Enriquez at times seems to relish it, savoring opportunities to spotlight what he believes are wrongs against the common man. But I am truthful, and it gets me into trouble sometimes. But I'd rather get a little flak than to go along to get along.
Truth is, the college-educated auto mechanic is somewhat of a walking contradiction.
He made his political plunge in last year's run for the City Council after spending years studying the Abilene school board. He is a proud outsider hustling to penetrate City Hall's inner circle. He possesses both the charm to woo people and the temper to alienate them. And he is a politician who doesn't pull his punches. The stronghold is opposed to me because there's no place to squeeze me.