The Kingmakers

One of the most intriguing storylines behind the mayor’s race (see our cover story tomorrow) is who is behind whom for political endorsements: Joe O’Brien has Lieutenant Governor Tim Murray endorsing him and Congressman Jim McGovern tacitly backing him, though not announcing an endorsement. On the other side, Kate Toomey has lined up Sheriff Guy Glodis and State Senator Michael Moore. The Democratic split once again illustrates the ongoing battle between McGovern and Glodis to be the local “kingmakers.” In 2006, when McGovern-backed Deval Patrick beat Glodis-backed Tom Reilly in the Democratic primary, one Patrick guy told Worcester Mag to “ask Guy who the kingmaker is now!”

Glodis and McGovern have always downplayed that “kingmaker” label, but clearly take pride in being influence peddlers, and having their endorsements carry the day. And should Glodis make that statewide run, as is expected by many local politicians, having a local mayor who he backed would be a nice feather in his cap.

McGovern takes it to the streets

The battle for funds for streetscape improvements in the Canal District has been a long, slow haul. But Congressman Jim McGovern told a group of approximately 20 Worcester business leaders on Tuesday night that he expects federal stimulus money to come through for the improvements relatively soon. And he’s not mincing words about his prediction. “I will be disappointed and surprised if streetscape money doesn’t come through,” McGovern told the Canal District Business Association meeting held at Blackstone Tap. “This is the biggest push I’ve made. If it doesn’t come through, I’ll be awfully bullshit.” McGovern added that a decision by Gov. Deval Patrick’s administration on the $7.5 million request made by the city is expected “in the next month or two.” The city submitted a 72-page proposal for “shovel-ready” projects, including sidewalks, lighting and benches for the Green and Water Street neighborhood, including cross streets.

President Clinton returning to Worcester

Former President Bill Clinton will return to Worcester on June 12th for a $125-a-guest fundraiser for Congressman Jim McGovern.

Rep. McGovern arrested on misdemeanor charges

Congressman Jim McGovern and four other members of congress were arrested this morning after protesting “crimes against humanity” in Sudan.

McGovern- who was arrested three years ago for a similar protest against the Darfurian situation – was prepared to be locked up, reportedly showing up sans tie and belt.

According to Boston.com,

The lawmakers — who also included Democratic Representatives John Lewis of Georgia, Donna Edwards of Maryland, Lynn Woolsey of California, and Keith Ellison of Minnesota — want the Sudanese government to allow international aid organizations back into Darfur to ease the escalating humanitarian crisis there. Further, the group wants President Obama to pressure the international community — including China, which has influence in Sudan — to force the Sudanese government into action.

MBTA/CSX/Commuter Rail announcement in the morning?

Big news could be coming in the morning regarding MBTA commuter rail trains.

A press conference on a “transportation announcement” has been called at Union Station at 7:45 AM, and a follow-up at South Station at 10:00. Both will feature Senator John Kerry, Congressman Jim McGovern, and Lieutenant Governor Tim Murray, who will ride the commuter rail between the cities.

No word on what the announcement is at this point. On the surface, we’d guess more roundtrip trains are coming to Worcester, although the rare appearance by Kerry could mean that an agreement between CSX and the state for rail ownership is finally on hand.

We’ll update this post if we hear more. Check back on the blog at 7:45 am for a liveblog of the press conference

Congressman McGovern supports failed bailout

House records indicate Congressman Jim McGovern voted in support of the failed bailout bill; we’ll have more as we hear his reaction.

The phantom candidate

With so many candidates running unopposed in the primary, it can be a bit hard to gauge public opinion. One very unscientific measurement is the number of blank votes or write-in votes. For example, Congressman Jim McGovern got 9,942 votes, but 11,918 were cast, giving him 83 percent of the total vote. Not all incumbents fared so well though. On the state representative side, Rep. Bob Spellane garnered 1,990 votes out of 2,887 cast (there were 839 blank ballots and 58 write-in votes), giving him 68.9 percent of every ballot cast in his district. That was the worst of any other state rep running unopposed this time around. Rep. John Binienda got 81.2 percent (1,698 of 2,091 ballots); Rep. John Fresolo secured 79.3 percent (2,193 of 2,763); Rep. Vincent Pedone got 78.3 percent (1,468 of 1,874); and Rep. Jim O’Day got 77.8 percent (1,794 of 2,303 votes). Registrar of Probate Stephen Abraham posted similar numbers running uncontested, garnering 76.2 percent of the ballots. Meanwhile, State Sen. Harriette Chandler walked away with 80.1 percent of the vote.

Deval meets the Turtle Boy

Two big announcements in one.  And, totally unintentionally, they’re related.

First, next Thursday, July 17, we’re continuing our Turtle Boy Thursdays series with a great night of music.  At least fifteen cover-free bands (and karaoke!) at no fewer than 11 clubs up and down Green Street, Water Street, Kelley Square, all the way to Nick’s on Millbury St.  All walkable, all free.

The same night, Daily Worcesteria has just learned, Governor Deval Patrick, Lieutenant Governor Tim Murray, and Congressman Jim McGovern will be hosting a so-called Obama-Clinton “unity rally” at the Hibernian Club on Temple Street.  And yes, we’ll be putting in an effort to get the Governor to check out the music scene.

In other words, get ready to call out next Friday.