What's Next For Sacramento Mayor Kevin Johnson?
SACRAMENTO (CBS13) — It's good to be Sacramento Mayor Kevin Johnson these days.
He saved the Sacramento Kings, he was elected to be the nation's top mayor and was instrumental in calling for action against Los Angeles Clippers owner Donald Sterling.
His timing seems impeccable. Like his famous dunk over Hakeem Olajuwon, Johnson seems to be elevating at the perfect time once again.
Public relations expert Doug Elmets says Johnson has a chance to run for any political office he wants.
"The world is his oyster," he said. "Once you burst onto the national stage, great opportunities come your way."
That stage is quickly growing. With his role as acting leader of the NBA Players Union, Johnson quickly became the strongest voice in the stand against a racist owner.
He's held his future political aspirations a secret, but the mayor's former campaign manager Steve Maviglio wouldn't be surprised if Johnson stays close to home.
"He enjoys being able to get things done," he said. "When you are working in Congress, in Washington, or even here in the legislature in Sacramento, it's a very slow process."
Elmets agrees.
"His strong suit is being an executive," he said. "Being a part of a legislative body of 535 people is less appealing than being something like a governor."
The rise seems quick, but it has been years in the making. Johnson led the Phoenix Suns to the 1993 NBA Finals. He recently ran the point as Sacramento's mayor, saving the city's only major professional sports team.
In the wake of the arena and Kings success, Johnson was named as president of the Conference of Mayors.
"He's America's mayor," Maviglio said. "I think that will give him a voice to project his views on a larger scale."
Heading two prominent organizations, the ride would be the end for most. But Elmets believes this is only the beginning for the Oak Park native.
"It will be fun to watch where Kevin Johnson goes because I'd venture to say his last stop is not going to be here at city hall in Sacramento," he said.