DeWayne Davis is described by authors Peter Eichten and Richard Jewell as the unifying leader Minneapolis needs. Their opinion piece frames the mayoral race as a choice between calm statesmanship and more confrontational leadership.
Opinion | Why DeWayne Davis is the best choice for Minneapolis mayor

Key Takeaways:
- The article endorses DeWayne Davis for Minneapolis mayor.
- Authors Peter Eichten and Richard Jewell highlight his statesmanlike approach.
- They pose the question of choosing a unifying leader versus a pugilist.
- It is presented as an opinion piece in the Star Tribune.
- The commentary emphasizes Davis’s demeanor as a key reason for support.
A Statesman’s Appeal
DeWayne Davis has been presented as a “statesman” by commentators Peter Eichten and Richard Jewell, who believe Minneapolis stakeholders should view him as the city’s best choice for mayor. Their opinion piece, published in the Star Tribune, poses a sharp question to voters: what kind of leadership do they truly want?
Contrast with ‘Pugilists’
“Do we want to put a statesman — as he is — in that role, or choose among pugilists?” the authors ask, contrasting Davis’s style with other, more combative approaches. In making their case, Eichten and Jewell suggest that Davis offers a composed demeanor and a unifying perspective, qualities they see as essential for guiding Minneapolis into its next chapter.
Why This Matters for Minneapolis
At the heart of their argument is the conviction that temperament matters in public office. By highlighting Davis as a “statesman,” the commentary implies that a thoughtful leader remains the preferred choice over a more confrontational figure. While the authors do not offer extensive policy details, they emphasize why this approach fits the city’s needs, urging voters to consider the stakes of this mayoral race and choose accordingly.