Ken Johnson
Staff writer
April 26, 2009 12:55 am LAWRENCE — Poll numbers may show Deval Patrick's popularity declining. But during a stop last week in Lawrence to promote economic development, he was swarmed by parents and their children eager for a handshake or a photograph with the governor. Of course, it's not hard to be popular when you're handing over a check for a million dollars. Many of those in attendance were affiliated with Lawrence CommunityWorks, the nonprofit agency driving the Union Crossing development that Patrick was in the city to promote. Patrick seemed to enjoy the attention, and patiently posed for photos until all were satisfied. It was strong evidence supporting those who say that, while he has made a number of political blunders, the governor retains a strong ability to connect with people, an ability that would serve him well in any future campaign. In an interview following the event, Patrick said he enjoys getting out among the people. "I get a lot out of being out of the office," he said. "I get support and encouragement. I get unfiltered communication — people telling me what's on their minds." What's on the minds of many Massachusetts residents is dissatisfaction. A Rasmussen Poll released last week found only 33 percent of Massachusetts voters are likely to vote for Patrick in 2010. Patrick repeated what he has said before: that he does not govern by the polls. He said the polls reflect the tough choices he has had to make as governor. "We've had to make difficult decisions, on cutting services, on raising revenue," he said. Nor have the low poll numbers affected his ability to advance his programs through the Legislature, Patrick said. He cited transportation, pension and ethics reforms currently in conference committees in the Legislature. "The objective evidence is that our agenda is moving," he said. "The legislative agenda continues to move."
—
Copyright © 1999-2008 cnhi, inc.