St. Albans Messenger endorses Deb Markowitz.

Ever since respected Addison Independent editor Angelo Lynn threw his support behind Matt Dunne,  some of us (not many, mind you) have watched with interest to see whom brother Emerson Lynn would annoint.  This gripping question was answered in today’s Messenger editorial:

We need a leader who understands the need to break the bureaucratic inertia that retards innovation…who understands the future is not about the person who occupies the office but about the next generation of Vermonters…Of the five Democratic candidates running for governor, Deb Markowitz is the one who best fits this profile.

He goes on to cast a few roses at her feet; but take care, there are some hidden thorns:

She understands… that efficiency in state government is a must, regardless of whom it offends.  When she became Secretary of State that need was evident in her office, and she took on the union to get it done.

or how about this:

Politics is about self-interest, the art of governing is blending these self-interests into a common theme that can be sold, and that is her strength.

The remainder of the editorial is basted with more oddly chosen and lukewarm praise for Markowitz, artfully phrased so as to target zingers at the other four candidates.

Matt Dunne, we are told

…shares some of Ms. Markowitz’s strengths.  He has the same level of grass roots understanding and ability to organize effectively.  He is a creative thinker and excels above the others – even Ms. Markowitz – in effectively using the bully pulpit to inspire.  In today’s world that appeals.  His weakness is that he overpromises…

Of Doug Racine he observes:

Few know state government better.  No one has a better heart…It is Mr. Racine who through his allegiances(?!), has gathered the lions share of the unions endorsements.  But his temperament is for another time…We fear his allegiances (again with the allegiances?!) would act more as a prison than a springboard.

Clearly, this guy doesn’t approve of unions; but why would he think an anti-union endorsement would appeal to Democratic voters?  Is he just messin’ with us?



Peter Shumlin gets it most directly in the chops.  Continuing the theme of left-handed compliments, the volley begins with a tip of the hat:

Peter Shumlin is the master tactician in the race….but to say he stands on his principles is objectionable to anyone who has watched him work.  He will say whatever he needs to say as long as he is the one who benefits.  Period.

Oo..kayy?  No need to go any further with that quote.  Clearly, there are some issues here.

To Susan Bartlett , he gives a nice pat on the head and the assurance that:

If a Democrat wins in November, look for her to be a name considered for a top post.

Hello?  Earth to Emerson, this isn’t the West Wing!

So, there you have it: The Messenger endorses Deb Markowitz.  Why do I have the lingering suspicion that  Brian Dubie approved this message?    Deb, you have my sincerest sympathy; and I, for one, won’t hold it against you!