Representative John Tierney’s reelection bid this year looks far more difficult than it has in the past. Legal proceedings involving his wife, Patrice, have dragged on, generating a stream of potentially damaging headlines, and the congressman this time is facing a far more formidable opponent. Richard R. Tisei, a 49-year-old Republican real estate agent, is a moderate with 26 years in the State Legislature and the full backing of his party. And unlike Tierney’s last challenger, Tisei has run a major campaign before.
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Comments
The problem is not Tierney's wife's legal "problems" -- yes, being a convicted felon is a "problem" -- it's his explanations that explain credulity. And it's not the "damaging headlines," it's the reasons WHY there are headlines. What a puff piece!
I'd be surprised is Tierney lost. Massachusetts Democrats re-elected Teddy after what he did, so what does Tierney have to worry about.
I don't know if it is too late for Tierney to step away for the good of his party or not, nor do I know if that would help. Tisei, whatever his faults or merits, is at least a serious challenger, and, more importantly, someone who seems like he will take the job seriously. Hudak was just too much of a whacko.
It's often just about the timing, incredible. I think this is the year that voters are ready for a real change from 2008's hopey changey thing. And Rich Tisei is a great candidate for this district.
Finally, a legitimate challenger to a MA Democrat. We need more of them.
Term Limits!
The alternative to term limits is high voter turn-out. Low turn out always more often than not favors incumbants. High voter participation also makes it difficult for entrenched party interests to sway elections.
Don't under estimate the stupidity of the average MA voter. If Tiernney wasn't ousted last term with all of his wife's issues he will never be.
Barbara 258: I tried to click on the "like" button on your comment, but it didn't work. Then I tried the "reply" button, and that didn't work either. If I could start another paragraph here I would and simply say that I hope you're right. I also hope the tech morons at the Globe will eventually fix the pathetic comments section of their website. I actualy called to complain a week or so ago and they weren't even aware that there were problems. Incredible, if I do say so myself.