Khazei Scores Globe Endorsement
Philanthropist Alan Khazei (D) has won the endorsement of MA's largest newspaper a little over a week before voters head to the polls for a special election primary.
Though most polls show Khazei running 4th out of the 4 major candidates, the endorsement from the Boston Globe will give him a boost that television commercials can't provide.
"The 48-year-old Khazei offers a strong vision for success in the Senate, channeling the energy of activist groups and private-sector policy incubators while dedicating himself to the laborious task of building legislative coalitions," the Globe writes of the former City Year CEO.
The Globe has kind words for each candidate: Rep. Mike Capuano (D) "proudly combines a bring-home-the-bacon approach to politics and a steadfast independence." AG Martha Coakley (D) "combines a no-nonsense courtroom demeanor with a down-to-earth reasonableness - a personality that would play well in the Senate." And businessman Stephen Pagliuca (D) "sincerely wishes to give back to his community."
Still, the paper writes that no one is about to truly replace the late Sen. Ted Kennedy (D).
"The chance to replace one of history's greatest legislators, Ted Kennedy, attracted a diverse field of Democrats. Predictably, none matches Kennedy's ability to represent both evergreen values and futuristic thinking."
Meanwhile, it has been Capuano who has gotten most of the high-profile endorsements. Ex-Gov. Michael Dukakis (D) sided with Capuano 11/28, the first time Dukakis has endorsed a candidate in a Dem primary since he left office. MA First Lady Diane Patrick also backs Capuano.
But Coakley retains her big lead. A Univ. of NH poll conducted 11/13-18 among 537 LVs showed Coakley leading with 43% to Capuano's 22%. Pagliuca clocked in at 15%, with Khazei bringing up the rear at 6%. The poll had a margin of error of +/- 4.4%.
(REiD WILSON)
Capuano has gotten lots of endorsements due to the power of incumbency. No brainer for his House chums like Pelosi to endorse. Lots of folks owe him, He also was an early endorser of Dukakis, Deval Patrick, Barack Obama et al.
Khazei has never had to make tough decisions, he's been the good guy in the white hat who has won the favor of the media and the big time money folks. Who wouldn't like the hyper energized, rah rah City Year guy? Unfortunately Washington isn't so kind to those not used to fighting for what they believe in. Peter Canellos, the head of the Globe editorial board has known him and written about him since at least 1995- Canellos and Ainsley, Globe publisher (who has been on boards with City Year members) used their newspaper today to endorse their friend- Guess it's their prerogative. Would be nice to shine a light on their long term relationships. Such is the msm these days, trust but verify.
Pags-well- he could make a good governor-He certainly has the money stuff down- at least how to make it.
Martha Coakley has had a 23 year record of exemplary public service. She also has plenty of important endorsements (check out her website, it's a long, long list) She is intelligent and combines heart and mind to lead and has on many issues, especially those related to civil rights. These are serious times and she's a serious candidate. As an added inducement, t's time we leveled the playing field with an immensely qualified, first in MA history, woman. We're lucky to have her.
Alan Khazei is a social entrepreneur, not a philanthropist. A philanthropist donates money--a social entrepreneur puts that money to work.