The Buzz: A vegetarian alternative to the red meat attack

Shawn Steel

COURTESY OF SHAWN STEEL

Red meat attacks are as old as politics: Wave something in front of voters that creates a visceral reaction, regardless of its factual nutritional value.

But now Shawn Steel, husband of county supervisor candidate Michelle Steel, has debuted the vegan smackdown.

Steel was in prime form when he gave a talk to the Newport Mesa Tea Party on Aug. 14, displaying his trademark blend of erudition, libertarianism and hyperbole.

But when he came to mentioning Democratic state Senate candidate Jose Solorio, Steel delivered a line that was remarkable even by his standards.

I got nothing against Jose Solorio, but hes a vegan. What a freak! Steel said, drawing chuckles. Thats like a fascist. Thats like ISIS.

Steel, a Surfside resident, is one the states three members on the Republican National Committee and is former chairman of the state GOP. He is backing Solorios opponent, Republican Janet Nguyen.

Solorio brushed aside the dietary assault.

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The Buzz: A vegetarian alternative to the red meat attack