Former Patrick supporters realize the error of their ways.
Despite Gov. Deval Patrick’s strong backing of Barack Obama, many of Patrick’s most ardent campaign supporters are opting for Hillary Clinton for president instead, with some saying the governor’s own early struggles show the risks of electing a political newcomer.
“It underscores the need to elect someone who doesn’t have to learn on the job,” state Rep. Kay Kahn (D-Newton) said of Patrick’s early performance. “We need a president who can hit the ground running, and I think Hillary Clinton can do that.”Kahn, who hosted fund-raisers for Patrick in 2006, is among 17 state lawmakers who supported his gubernatorial campaign, but now have decided to back Clinton for president. Clinton supporters cite the number of defections as proof the New York senator is attracting top Democrats who value political grit and experience over inspiring rhetoric...
[S]ome of Patrick’s liberal defectors said his rocky start on Beacon Hill played a key role in their support for Clinton. “We’ve now seen firsthand what happens when you put someone in office who lacks experience, but has extraordinarily inspiring rhetoric,” said one lawmaker who asked for anonymity. “The inspiring rhetoric is compelling and appealing, but what has that gotten us?"
UPDATE: More from the AP.
