In this issue, political reporter David S. Bernstein surveys the statewide political scene (see "Inside Game," Talking Politics) with an eye to see who is positioning themselves to run for governor when the present occupant of the corner office, Deval Patrick, steps down.
All the usual suspects make their expected appearances. The Phoenix would like to take this opportunity to say that we hope US Congressman Michael Capuano of Somerville thinks long and hard about running.
Political junkies should not get too excited; this is not a preemptory endorsement. But given the sorry state of ongoing affairs on Beacon Hill, someone who has served as a mayor and a congressman might be in a position to let some sunshine into the workings of state government.
After a shaky start, Patrick certainly has. On balance, six good years will turn out to be a pretty good return for the two years he invested in getting his bearings.
And odds are, if Capuano were to run and were to win (the two are not necessarily connected), he'd enter office ready to roll.
Capuano was a great mayor. His focus in Washington — on transportation, infrastructure, and affordable housing — would give him a basket of expertise that would benefit Massachusetts.
Capuano is also a true friend of labor and a fiscal realist. That's an unusual combination. He might be just the man to craft and implement the sort of public-employee reform the state so badly needs, without sparking a Wisconsin-like conflict.
"Might" is, of course, the operative word. Think about it, Mike — long and hard.
