What Party?
An imaginary interview with the Republican candidate for Governor:
Q. Thank you for taking time to discuss your background and philosophy. In preparation, I’ve reviewed your website and mailings to voters. They’re very attractive, but one thing puzzled me…They don’t mention you’re a Republican. In small print the glossy flyers indicate they are paid for by MRSC – which I assume stands for Mass. Republican State Committee. Why not say outright that you’re a Republican running for Governor?
A. I think most people realize I’m a Republican – it’s not necessary to advertise. Besides, I want voters to judge me on my own character and credentials.
Q. Your credentials include serving as executive director of the Republican State Committee and running unsuccessfully as the Republican candidate for state representative twice. I couldn’t find that part of your biography on your website.
A. There’s limited space on the website. Besides, my background as a consultant and my role in the Romney administration are more relevant. As Lieutenant Governor, I have a broad range of responsibilities in the Romney-Healey administration.
Q. As a key player in the Romney administration, what are your proudest accomplishments?
A. I’m running for governor to take Massachusetts in a new direction, a direction that creates the optimal place for businesses to grow and thrive, a place where working families can afford to live and buy a new home, and a place where our children get the best education in the world.
Q. That sounds promising. Massachusetts has had sixteen years of Republican management, and you’ve been there for four of those years yourself. What proposals to you make now?
A. We have made great strides in some areas, but have to continue to fight to keep the cost of housing down, to reduce the tax burden on residents and employers, and to uphold the education standards that have taken a decade to put in place.
Q. Wasn’t one of the main causes of the Romney-Healey win in 2002 the massive TV claim that Romney’s investment experience would attract new businesses and jobs?
A. Well, it’s the legislature’s fault that we couldn’t attract new businesses. A Chief Executive has only so much clout.
Q. Then why do you think Massachusetts has had a loss of solid jobs during the Romney-Healey administration?
A. Again, the legislature hampered our efforts in this area.
Q. You were head of the Republican Party of Massachusetts. You gave a significant donation to George Bush’s campaign. Vice President Cheney recently came to Boston to raise money for you. Republican Presidential candidate Mitt Romney supports you. He says, “Having more Republican governors means more Republican congressmen, senators and better support for the presidency.” Why are you a Republican, especially now?
A. I’m a Republican because I’m fiscally conservative and believe in cutting taxes. Also working hard and taking personal responsibility.
Q. Do you support the massive tax cuts that Republicans gave to billionaires this year? How will the rest of us pay off the deficit?
A. Massachusetts can trust me on Beacon Hill to protect the interests of taxpayers and lead the way toward safer communities, economic growth and a public education system that is preparing the next generation of workers for 21st century jobs.
Q. What about the increases in property taxes and cuts in school and public safety budgets during the Romney-Healey administration? If you roll back the income tax before the state’s finances improve further, won’t the greater burden on municipalities require even higher property taxes?
A. The income tax rate must be immediately rolled back by 3/10th of one percent. The people of Massachusetts voted for it and the only way to keep the Legislature’s spending in check is to take the money off the table.
Q. Most communities are struggling, with teachers laid off, fire stations closed, roads and bridges in disrepair…while everyone’s hit with higher fees for trash, water, parking, school activities, licenses, fees of all kinds. Business owners are concerned about transportation, public services, and education and safe recreation for their employees’ children. How will you attract more good jobs to Massachusetts if we don’t have enough money to maintain the state’s infrastructure and local aid?
A. I will get rid of waste and abuse of taxpayer funds…the waste and abuse that the Romney/Healey administration and the three previous Republican administrations haven’t already dealt with.
Q. Thank you for this very informative conversation. I’m sorry to say we’ve run out of time.
