Chip's Blog

In this mornings New York Times, a story appeared about Duh-val Patrick's ongoing problems with the legislature in Massachusetts.  Whether of not one agrees that Duh-val is "on the ropes" (I don't...to be "on the ropes", one has to have "gotten off the canvas"...), his difficulties with the Massachusetts House raises interesting questions about Democratic Party politics, and draws into question Obama's fate were he elected.

Let me start out by telling folks that I am not a Duh-val fan.  I campaigned against him, I've been openly and consistently critical of him on the blogs, and, in the absence of dramatic change in the very near future, I believe he will become simply the worst Governor in my lifetime.  I also want to state, unequivocally, that this has nothing to do with his race, but it has everything to do with his message.  I've just never liked politicians who promise everything to everybody.  They damned near always deliever nothing to anyone...but themselves.  Duh-val is right on track toward proving me right again.

But I'm watching the response he is getting from Sal DiMasi and the House.  He's not even getting an "audience" to say nothing of a debate.  I opposed the casino plan, but was shocked it received so little debate and consideration.  His attempts to assist communities with tax burdens was shot down without a word.  We could go on.  It would be very easy for me to write this off as "[...] Duh-val" activity.  And I'd enjoy doing so....but for one problem.

I have come to the realization that the reception he has recieved on "the Hill" by his fellow Democrats is racist.  You see, I have been studying Democratic Party philosophy for a year now.  I have watched how Democratic Party policy, most especially "entitlements" have enslaved again minorities.  Now, I'm watching a Democratically controlled State House of Representatives not even give his ideas the time of day.  The disrespect is palpable.

Here's what I think.  I do not think the Democratic Party in Massachusetts is vastly different than the national Party.  What I'm thinking is that not only will Obama take Duh-val's words as his own, but will inherit his political fate.  He will simply be politically emasculated by the same Democratic Party leadership who is trying to serve up to Hillary the delegates and popular votes from Florida and Michigan.  And I think that is because he is black.