12.14.2005

College Democrats of Massachusetts Appreciate Romney's Gift

BOSTON , December 14—Governor Mitt Romney finally did something in the best interest of Massachusetts today. He declared he would not be running for reelection for Governor of Massachusetts in 2006, indicating to many, that he is continuing his plans to become the Republican candidate for the Presidential race in 2008.

In an election which produces a winner or loser, Romney would end up looking foolish in either outcome. In 2006, his hope of reelection looks as bleak as his popularity level among Massachusetts voters. If somehow, Romney were to win, he would be stuck in a four-year term, placing him in difficult and inopportune position to declare candidacy for President. As manipulative as his decision sounds, to his credit, Romney is finally being realistic about his political career in Massachusetts and confessing his true ambitions.

This is surely better than when Romney thought no one would notice his visits to South Carolina in February in order to court their Republican voters instead of concerning himself with his presiding responsibilities. Still, despite his naiveté, Romney knows what he is doing. He will need to win South Carolina in order to win the Republican nomination. In the past several elections, the victor of the South Carolina primary has also won the nomination.

So, instead of seeing Romney's decision as lost interest in Massachusetts, we should view this as one of the scarce but noble acts he has made in his political career. After all, he is finally admitting to us that his concern and wisdom would be better utilized for the select group of people him and his Party considers to be representative of the entire United States of America .

The College Democrats of Massachusetts are encouraged by these turn of events and by Romney's gracious act. This creates an opportunity to seize the momentum in electing a progressive leader for 2006 who will not abandon the state and its people for his or her own vain ambitions. It is an opportunity that the College Democrats intend on taking full advantage of.