I'm currently running for a local office. This is my first time, so I don't have any name recognition or big money. So, I'm getting out to as many events as I can, trying to build that reputation and meet as many people as possible.

Last night, I was at an event, trying to network. I was very much doing hit-and-run conversations where I would say hello to someone, ask how they are, talk a bit about my campaign (and theirs, if they're a candidate), and then excuse myself to talk to someone else.

At one point, a friend of mine cornered me. I've known this woman for many years, and have nothing but nice things to say about her. 

Normally, I wouldn't mind talking to her at all. However, this time, she wanted to get deep into a discussion about zoning along bus lines. Every time I tried to end the conversation, she would continue talking as if I hadn't. At one point, she was actually holding my jacket sleeve to prevent me from walking away. All in all, we wound up talking for about twenty minutes of a two-hour event.

Finally, I was able to wave another friend over and pull a, "Have you met *person?*" and then somewhat gracefully excuse myself.

This morning, my friend who had been bending my ear sent me a text message tell me that it was rude of me to "hand [her] off" and "ditch" her last night. I feel like it was rude of *her* to monopolize my time at en event where networking and socializing is expected. But, I'd appreciate some outside perspective.