Could the problems affecting Deval Patrick's administration be a boon for College Republican groups in the Bay State?

There were plenty of college kids who supported Patrick, embracing his optimistic rhetoric and image. They believed that Patrick would be a true agent of political change in Massachusetts, sweeping out the old way of doing business and injecting new energy into the government.

Now that this promise has already been broken, it's quite likely that Patrick's college supporters are just as disillusioned by his lack of achievement as their older counterparts. Now would be a pretty good time for College Republican groups in this state to make an effort to convince those disillusioned supporters that true political change will come from the GOP, not Patrick.

College Republicans should make the case that Patrick's proposals pose economic risks to those who might want to stay around in Massachusetts after graduation. The university GOP should explain that Patrick's attempt to close corporate tax "loopholes" will send even more businesses out of state--and that the only way to stimulate the economy and encourage more businesses to return to Massachusetts is by reducing the overall tax burden.

College Republicans should also point out the flaws in other aspects of Patrick's platform. A detailed explanation of the worrisome aspects of Patrick's worldview could draw more college students into the GOP camp.

This won't be easy. College kids are obviously fairly skeptical of the state and national GOP these days--and even if they did reconsider their political affiliation, they would likely join the GOP as moderates, not as Reagan conservatives. However, every little bit helps, especially in this deep-blue state.

To paraphrase the tagline for the Cate Blanchett film Notes on a Scandal, one person's mistake is another person's opportunity. College Republican groups should seize this moment, and use Patrick's current weakness to gain strength. Explain to disillusioned Democrats why Patrick's views aren't right--it's an effort that could pay off in future political fights.

UPDATE: We told you Patrick wants higher taxes... More from the Herald and AP.

SECOND UPDATE: From the Herald and Globe.