Apples and oranges.
I said he is not one to bet on a losing horse.
That doesn't mean he should have been elected DS, or even that the men of the Western District always pick the winner.
I'm talking about his ability to make things go, and spot trends, not necessarily his ability as a politician.
He is way too controversial and outspoken to be a very good politician. In order to do that, you have to be willing to compromise your principles sometimes for the sake of the perceived "greater good."
He won't do that.