Dear Department Chair,
It is true what you say, that I believe my opinion on this matter is more valid, and should hold more weight than your sidekick’s. The reason for this, however, is not that I have more degrees and a higher rank than does your sidekick.
The reason is that I read book reviews and research articles in major journals in field, and your sidekick does not; and that I am in direct contact with scholars in the relevant subfield, whereas your sidekick is subject only to the flattery of sales representatives.
Please realize that on this question, it is I (and mine), not you and yours who are the most disinterested and the most objective.
Axé.
coldhearted scientist وداد 
Yes, but you might discriminate on the basis of quality and stuff.