When Mayor Vincent C. Gray informally presented his proposed $12 billion 2014 budget to D.C. Council members last week, those gathered in his ceremonial office in the John A. Wilson Building might have thought him Pope Francis incarnate. Legislators offered platitudes and seemed ready to kiss his ring.

Even Ward 3’s Mary Cheh, who, less than a year ago called for his resignation, was effusive. “With this budget plan, Mayor Gray has shown that improving the quality of life for all District residents, regardless of ZIP code, is the top priority,” she offered in a public statement.