Notes From D.R. | Random Thoughts on the Passing Scene

Forget about Deval Patrick. If Jack Robinson defeats Stephen Lynch to become the state’s first Republican congressman in a decade, such a victory will be the real "biggest Bay State political story of the year."

A Robinson win would be sweet vindication for the Harvard-educated businessman and attorney, a hearty last laugh for the man known for refusing to bow down when the powers-that-be insisted that he kneel. A little over a half-decade after he withstood underhanded efforts to force him to abandon his grassroots US Senate campaign against Ted Kennedy, Robinson may well end up on Capitol Hill with the senior (citizen) senator–and representing the state far more effectively than Kennedy has in the last few years.

As an "unbought and unbossed" Congressman, Robinson will not be reluctant to challenge outdated ideas and philosophies. He will reject both "rubber-stamping" and knee-jerk obstructionism with equal fervor. He will combat the Washington culture that rewards sloganeering, sloth and special interests. Unlike former Bay State Congressman Bob Drinan, Robinson is not a priest; however, if elected, he will not hesitate to read the eulogy for politics as usual.

Robinson could have a galvanizing effect on his potential Congressional colleagues if elected. Let’s be honest–when’s the last time you’ve heard of John Olver or John Tierney or Jim McGovern or Ed Markey or Martin Meehan doing something truly beneficial for the residents of Massachusetts? Once Robinson gets down to the people’s business, and begins to draw media attention for his effectiveness and independence, you can be sure that his Congressional colleagues will work twice as hard to ensure that they aren’t ignored. That means they’ll once again be responsive and accountable. That means all of our Congressional representatives will once again truly represent us.

The residents of Massachusetts haven’t had the Congressional leadership they deserve in a good long time. For years, members of our congressional delegation have ignored the will of the people, preferring instead to bash President Bush and pander to the Daily Kos. If Jack Robinson wins the Ninth District Congressional election on November 7, he’ll put an end to that nonsense–and usher in an era of common sense.

UPDATE: The Terri Schiavo case could be an issue in this election.