Baker mum on party chief preference
Experts: Working behind the scenes, or no longer invested?
Gov. Charlie Baker is tightlipped about the race for chairmanship of the state Republican Party, a stark contrast to two years ago when he used the weight of his political stature to stack the State Committee with loyalists.
One political pundit suggests that though Baker isn’t voicing his preference for the party chair, he could be working behind the scenes, and another speculates that he may no longer be as invested since he secured a second term.
Political consultant Chip Jones said, “My understanding is there’s a person who is spearheading the campaign activities within the State Committee that’s being handled by person that ran a coordinated campaign for Charlie. That, I think, would lead you to believe that Charlie was behind it.”
Political consultant Ryan Williams said, “The Governor has had a particular focus on party operations in advance of his re-election. He wanted to ensure the party was running smoothly and not causing distraction. We don’t yet know if he’s interested in seeking a third term, but he may have less of a focus on party operations if he isn’t focusing on another run for office.”
So far Treasurer of the Mass GOP Brent Andersen and Rep. Peter Durant have announced their candidacy for the position, and Rep. Geoff Diehl has expressed interest in it. Diehl declined to comment and Durant did not respond to a request for one.
In the governor’s first press conference since it became clear that MassGOP Chairman Kirsten Hughes would not run for a fourth term, Baker was asked who he prefers and told reporters, “I think we expect that that will be a robust discussion for people.”
When asked if he would get involved in the internal campaign, Baker said, “We haven’t gotten involved yet.”
One candidate in particular holds a unique advantage, pundits say.
“I think it’s wide open but Andersen certainly benefits from having pre-existing relationships with State Committee members, having served as an officer of the party,” Williams said.
Jones said Andersen would be the “establishment” pick, and therefore the “governor’s candidate.”
“Brent is very well known amongst committee members and that’s who votes,” Jones said.
Andersen touts his almost 20 years on the State Committee.
“I have a good rapport with people in the community,” Andersen said. “I understand the workings of the State Committee — I’ve been treasurer for 15 years — I understand the importance of fundraising and budgets and business aspects of the party.”