San Diego Democrats Versus Drug Lords

Alan Bersin, President Obama’s customs and border chief, often touts the administration’s efforts to counter the danger to American tourists from Mexico’s cartel-spawned violence, and it appears that San Diego Democrats are taking him at his word. “I’m pleased to announce that our first ‘Set Sail for Victory’ cruise will depart San Diego this December 3 for a seven-day trip along the Mexican Riviera,” says a recent email from party chairman Jess Durfee. “Organized by the San Diego County Democratic Party, the cruise will include entertainment, excursions, informal trainings, food, a special cocktail reception, and more.… Every day will bring a wealth of activities, from informal political workshops to excursions and entertainment. For all Set Sail for Victory participants, an exclusive presentation will show how Democrats will lead the way to success in 2012!”

Stops by Holland America’s Oosterdam are to include Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlan, and Cabo San Lucas, with tickets starting at $669 a person, double occupancy. But it’s not without risks. According to the U.S. State Department’s most recent travel warning for Mexico, issued in September, “Mazatlan has experienced a recent increase in violent crime, with more murders in the first quarter of 2010 than in all of 2009.”