US Representative Michael E. Capuano has decided to pass up a run for the US Senate, removing a huge hurdle for his Democratic colleague Edward J. Markey, the dean of the state’s congressional delegation, who has been trying to empty the field for the party’s primary, analysts say.
Capuano’s move also puts pressure on the other only major potential contender in his party, US Representative Stephen F. Lynch, a South Boston Democrat who confirmed Tuesday that he is still taking a hard look at running in the special election to fill John F. Kerry’s seat.
Comments
I am a life long registered Democrat. I really don't like how the party establishment is handing this nomination to Markey as part of an entitlement, without connecting with feeling amongst rank and file voters. Do these folks remember what happened when something similar transpired with Shannon OBrien for Governor (Romney!).
Markey just seals the deal for any other of the top Republican prospects who have already connected with voters in the past...Baker...Brown...or Weld.
What are you talking about, fortguy? Shannon O'Brien had, as primary opponents, the Senate President, Tom Birmingham, who had the support of organized labor, former US Labor Secretary Bob Reich, who had the support of many liberals, as well as the previous Lt. Governor candidate, (I can't remember his first name) Tolman, and Steve Grossman, who is now treasurer. No one gave Shannon O'Brien a free ride.
The Democrats this time around do not intend to pull a Coakley. Markey is a much better campaigner and lesson learned he will know the issues, debate better and every effort will be made to get the Democratic vote out no matter who the Republican candidate is. Not saying Markey will win but the effort will be far greater than the last special election.