Tuesday’s sudden resignation of Ken Chesshir from his duties as the lame-duck mayor of Beeville and nomination of John Fulghum to replace him caught many off guard.

Chesshir has made no secret of his desire that Fulghum should assume the position of mayor, having stated it publicly when he announced he would not run for a ninth term.

The unusual part of it is in the timing since newly elected city councils always reorganize after the election, even if no one new is added to the body. Chesshir opting not to finish out his term with only weeks remaining gives the move a tactical feel.

Cynics might accuse Chesshir of trying to name his own replacement. If so, this would appear to be a fairly ham-handed move.

Perhaps Chesshir wanted to fulfill a political promise to Fulgum that he would be mayor when Chesshir stepped down – if only for a few weeks until the new council reorganizes.

Unless there are some sudden health issues or other extenuating circumstances which were not announced, the action was simply odd, but ultimately harmless – at least to the council itself.

The new council will reorganize and perhaps elect Fulghum mayor. That is rightfully its prerogative.

Fulghum has the resume to serve in the position. It may be unfortunate that Chesshir’s action may taint that with the hint of political shenanigans.

We have a tradition in this country – although not always followed – of the former president not criticizing the sitting leader. Hence, George Bush refusing to comment on Barack Obama’s actions; the idea being that each leader is entitled to pursue his term without interference out of respect for the office.

That’s not to say the same applies to serving as mayor of Beeville. But it’s a good policy to leave the governing to the next guy when you step down and not even give the appearance of trying to pull strings or cast shadows.

That would be better for the next mayor, be it Fulghum or anyone else.