Dear Deval Patrick - Please Stop Trying to Live Vicariously Through Barack Obama

Hi Governor Patrick,

I am writing you from my home computer in Brighton, MA. I heard yesterday on NPR that you're heading to South Carolina to help campaign for Obama's candidacy. Listen, I know the beginning of the year is a little slow in terms of having stuff to do but I'm pretty ticked off that you're doing this. I voted for you and I think you're doing a great job but you and John Kerry supporting Obama is not only unfair - it is tacky. The truth is that the decision of who to vote for should be made by the voters. You're really slapping the Clinton's in the face with this one. John Kerry is also slapping John Edwards in the face. With you I am more pissed though. I rode the exciting wave of your grassroots campaign. I see how the aftermath of such excitement can be dull now that you're working the daily grind and seeing the same wave (but bigger) happening makes you want to get involved but I am your supporter and I pay taxes in this state and have entrusted you to be here doing your job. I also am in support of Hillary Clinton. I think Obama is great. Once our pockets stop being robbed and our economy is back in shape in America a great uniter with an exciting and booming voice would be a thrilling president to have. Right now we need Hillary Clinton in office. That is how I feel. And right now I need you to stop wasting time and resources on helping a primary candidate because it is not in the interest of the people of Massachusetts. It is in your own interest. It is unfair and tacky.

More people should follow the ever-consistent example of Senator Edward Kennedy. He is not backing a primary candidate. People with such sway should not reveal their personal preference. It is unfair to choose between two great candidates in such a close race like this. Once a candidate has made the final cut and become a candidate for the presidency then it is ok to announce your support.

Oh yeah, and Oprah's on my shit list too.

I am not against supporting a candidate at all. In a situation like we have here it is important that influential figures who are clearly going to support a democrat are sure to stay out of it until the best man or woman wins. Both candidates are vastly popular and it is going to be close. With all these big names coming in to help Obama the contest seems to be swaying in his favor. Of course he reminds us of the American dream - his NH concession speech even gave me chills. I wish voters could focus on the issues without the popularity contest clouding their vision. I vote for competency in the times at hand to deal with the current economy and get the middle class back on track. Please come home and work out your 2008 budget and this casino crap and stop trying to ride the wave so you can do the job that your wave brought you to...

Thanks,

Renee