Limited seating, with a view

"Two kinds of government chair correspond with the two kinds of [official]: one sort folds up instantly and the other sort goes round and round in circles." (paraphrased from the British T.V. Comedy "Yes Minister")

Sound familiar.

First let me note the use of the quote came to mind based on the use of the same by a reader in a private e-mail sent to me on a very specific issue.  But extremely appropriate in many circumstances in which we see officials, at least the perception one is left with, as to how they address many issues.

Another type of seat ...

In the local daily newspaper, on Saturday I believe, was an article regarding the challenge issued by Bristol County D.A. Sam Sutter to Rep. William Keating to have nine (9) debates for the race to see who will represent the democrats in the general election for the newly formed 9th Congressional district.  While Keating is a sitting Congressional representative, he is not the incumbent.  His old district was essentially eliminated with the redrawn lines based on the latest census.

Politics being what it is, there is is long standing rule of thumb that you don't debate unless you need to.  Certainly there will be some debates.  It can't be avoided.  A few are expected.  But Keating is the "anointed" candidate for the seat.  The new "9th" contains many of the communities from his former district.  As of now, it appears he has the support of many of the powers that be, and indeed if one is a legitimate handicapper, leaving emotions and preferences out of the equation, is the favorite in the primary race.

His name recognition in Bristol County may be limited, however I doubt it is causing him to loose too much sleep, at least at this point in time.

Is Keatings' so far silence on the number of debates a "dodge" of Sutter.  Sure it is.  It is a smart one too.  Why give an opponent the opportunity to score points.  Everyday you take to respond reduces the time frame in which debates can be held.

Tomorrow's preview ...

I don't have one yet.  This is an off week for the selectmen.  Usually one can glean something worth writing about from the agenda.  In fact, more than once I have written the piece ahead of time based on my prognostication skills.  Haven't had to change the premise of the story yet. 

I suppose I can do some more on last week's meeting.  Let's face it, if the meetings were cannon fodder, the Hundred Years War would have made it to the ripe old age of at least 200.

What is on the horizon?

For today I will take the short-sighted approach and note that based on my present view, it is going to be one beautiful day.  Let's hope it remains that way.