Gubernatorial Candidate Reactions To Amorello Resignation
by Aaron Margolis, July 31st, 2006 at 07:45am
The following are reactions from the gubernatorial candidates on the resignation of the soon-to-be former Massachusetts Turnpike Authority Chairman Matt Amorello.
Christopher Gabrieli (Democrat): “Matt Amorello stepping down was long overdue — he had become too much of a distraction. But this is only a first step. Our top priority should be ensuring the safety of the tunnels to restore confidence in our public safety and restore real accountability to state government so that nothing like this ever happens again.”
Pretty much a standard issue response.
Deval Patrick (Democrat): “I think Mr. Amorello did the right thing by resigning because public confidence in the project could not be restored under his leadership. However, this project’s failed leadership is bigger than one person or one agency. We must confront the ‘Big Dig culture’ on Beacon Hill — which is one of neglect and inaction, where politics has been more important than governing. New, independent leadership at the top is the only way to help restore the public’s confidence in the project. None of our current political leadership has managed to get the job done.”
You would think he was stumping for Christy Mihos. Does he think he, the most liberal of the Democratic candidates can be “new, independent leadership?” He also seems to be swiping at the legislature, but you can bet he’s thinking the corner office.
Thomas F. Reilly (Democrat): “Matt Amorello did the right thing today in resigning as Turnpike Authority chairman and I’m particularly glad he stepped aside before entering into protracted, costly legal proceedings. I believe his decision will at last bring an end to the distraction he brought to the critical work before us — getting to the bottom of the tragic collapse that killed Milena Del Valle, ensuring the tunnels are safe for drivers and restoring the public’s faith in the project.”
You’re glad he “stepped aside before entering into protracted, costly legal proceedings”? How much tax payer dollars did spend in the days leading up to his resignation, about a million bucks? And for what, nothing? Reilly is probably happy that he wasn’t the first fall guy himself.
Christy Mihos (Unenrolled) : “By law, as of July 2007, the chairman of the Turnpike Authority will have to be the Secretary of Transportation and Construction. It behooves the next governor to pick somebody who is eminently qualified. As governor, what I will do is seek to eliminate the Turnpike Authority and bring its functions into state government so that everybody is accountable. If the people don’t like it, vote us out. But at least they will have a say on how this thing is run and managed.”
Again, another standard issue type response, but very procedural, and a bit cocky.
At the time these reactions were procured, Kerry Healey did not issue a reaction.
Entry Filed under: Election 2006
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