Republican Power On Beacon Hill?
House Republicans may have a rare opportunity to flex their muscles on Beacon Hill.
The Bay State’s few Republican lawmakers, mocked for their dwindling membership and influence, may have the last laugh if they emerge as power brokers with a decisive block of votes for the next speaker of the House.
Representatives from both Rep. Robert DeLeo (D-Winthrop) and Rep. John Rogers (D-Norwood) have put feelers out to House Republicans for support as neither can tally a clear victory in the Democratic caucus.
“Because of the closeness of this battle, a block of 19 votes could put one candidate over the top,” said one Republican lawmaker, who asked to remain anonymous.
Sounds nice that Republicans could have such influence, particularly with their dwindling numbers in the State House, but what do they have to gain by getting involved? What kind of promises can be made (or kept)?
Rep. Kevin Murphy (D-Lowell) said while the Republicans could put either candidate over the top, he would be shocked if Republicans voted for a Democratic speaker. “What are they going to get in return? That’s what I wonder,” Murphy said.
Rep. Murphy is exactly right. What can Republicans gain except a “thank you” followed by “go screw.”
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Aaron Margolis is a life long resident of the Bay State, and works at an architectural firm north of Boston. Aaron has a Master of Architecture Degree from Boston Architectural College and is currently in the process of becoming of a Registered Architect.
Back in the late seventies, the House Minority leader was a guy named Bill Robinson from Melrose. Robbie had a very cozy relationship with then Speaker Tom Mcgee. Back then the minority members with the exception of General Royall Switzler, got plently patronage for their supporters and thier pert projects made it through the budget process.
Robinson didn’t provide much of an opposition but given the pathetic number of Republicans in the House, maybe they should get on board and make some deals that would benefit their district, until they can get a significant number of Republicans elected, but until guys like the gentleman farmer and the guiy on the Cape continue their pipe dreams about being elected to the US Senate that is not going to happen.
back then, we Rs salivated at the prospects of a special election and won many of them. now, can you tell me the last time the party won a “special”? bottom up is the only way. they just don’t get it. target, target, target.go for 15 winnable seats per cycle. the oganowsi thing is a joke. would love to see a kerry/beaty debate.