So why did the voters reject Chris Gabrieli, who, though he ran for higher office before, at least came across as a political outsider?
It’s because in addition to a fresh face, you need to articulate a compelling political vision. Repeating the New Public Management “gets results” mantra endlessly isn’t articulating a vision. And voters don’t want someone who appears to be trying to buy their way into office.
Patrick was the only Democratic candidate who didn’t resort to cliches and slogans. He was the first and only candidate to address the big lie about lowering taxes. In an effective ad, he told the voters what they know–that lowering income taxes will only raise property taxes. It’s a shell game, he rightly pointed out.
The Boston Globe may carp about Patrick’s liberal baggage, but there’s no question he’s the best candidate for governor the Democrats have had in 20 years. It looks as though he’ll make an excellent governor as well.
For attacks on the candidates who lost. It is a day for looking at the candidate we still have to beat.