Mumbles Mumbles

Dear Mayor Menino,

Let me first say, I'm a fan. I like the work you've done in Boston. And, although I'd like to see you more actively addressing violent crime, I think you've got a good chance to go down as one of the better Mayors the Hub has seen in this half of the century. One of your strongest suits, I thought, was loyalty and your "buck stops here attitude." Apparently, I was wrong.

Now, I completely agree with your assessment that the St. Fleur choice was Tom Reilly's "alone." However, attempting to wash your hands of a situation that has your finger prints all over it looks petty and supremely disloyal. Since you announced your support for the Reilly campaign it's been quite clear that you have a say in the major decisions being made. And while you may claim you were "never lobbying" for your close friend Marie St. Fleur, well, that dog won't hunt Mr. Mayor.

Whether politics is your strong suit or not, we all know that there are few people you can trust in this business. If you're a real friend to the AG, Mr. Mayor, and you want to see him nominated and elected to the corner office, you'd be much better served saying you were disappointed Marie St. Fleur couldn't take advantage of an incredible opportunity for personal reasons, etc. Not too tough, right? Sure, you might not come out pristine, but this is politics, not ballroom dancing. If anyone should know that, you should.

Here's hoping those Boston delegates are a bit more steady in their support than their leader has appeared to be.

Sincerely,

Your friends on the other side of the Charles