Deval: In or Out?

Democrat Deval Patrick has been governor of Massachusetts for the last four years. He is the first African-American to hold the position of Massachusetts governor. Patrick is originally from Chicago, where he grew up in the city's housing projects in a poor family. Through a non-profit organization, Patrick was able to attend Milton Academy and Harvard College. He later attended Harvard Law School.  Patrick served in the Clinton Administration as Assistant Attorney General for the Civil Rights Division. In that role, he served to prosecute cases of racial-profiling and hate crimes. In 2006, Patrick was elected governor with running mate Tim Murray against Republican opponent Lt. Governor Kerry Healey.

Patrick has many advantages for running a re-election campaign. He has the traditional advantage of the incumbency, where voters see him as an experienced politician, the proper one to lead Massachusetts through tough economic times. As a Democrat, he has the upper hand in being the governor of one of the most liberal states in the union. If most of the state's registered Democrats show up to vote, he has a good chance of re-election.

During his term in office, Patrick has made some unpopular decisions. His campaign for casinos in the state lead him into a fierce fight with opposition from both parties. Multiple scandals involving staff members has also hurt his credibility. Another infamous episode was when Patrick left the state during the casino debate to work out a book deal for his memoirs. During this election, Patrick faces opposition from his Treasurer Tim Cahill, who might split the Democratic vote.

I am personally not a supporter of Patrick.  I do recognize, though, the chance of his re-election in this liberal state. According to polls, however, Patrick and Republican Baker are almost tied with Patrick leading by a 1% advantage. If Republicans are able to muster the voter strength that swept Scott Brown into office, they stand a firm chance of unseating Patrick.