Not to rain on everybody’s Chafee parade, but…

So the commentary related to Rhode Island Governor Lincoln Chafee’s declaration that he’s not going to run for a second term of office has immediately gone to the political.  How will this affect next year’s gubernatorial election?  What about the Democrat primary?  What about the Republican primary?

And why did he make the announcement at the DMV?

For my own part, I took a moment to peruse the Current-Anchor archives by way of reminiscing about the term that’s been, and a dark, scary thought hit me:  What if the question we should all be asking isn’t political, but rather one of policy?

I think it’s a media and news consumer vice to get so into the political races.  It’s fun.  It’s kind of like a sport.  Place your bets.  Talk smack over a beer on the couch.

But here’s the thing: The governor who led the nation in creating ObamaCare health benefit exchanges by executive fiat (with no non-abortion options), the governor who tried to pass off a crony for a high-paying, high-power gig against the state Code of Ethics (until some small-time blogger said, “hey, wait a minute,” on a Saturday morning), the governor who nominated an ethically compromised former Senate president to a judgeship, the governor who vetoed a “Choose Life” license plate bill, and more — that governor has a year and a half in an office that he’s already declared no interest in keeping.

That raises two scary questions:  1) How is he likely to fill his remaining time?  2) Will his status present an opportunity for the forces of good or the forces of ill in the state?

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in The Ocean State Current, including text, graphics, images, and information are solely those of the authors. They do not purport to reflect the views and opinions of The Current, the RI Center for Freedom & Prosperity, or its members or staff. The Current cannot be held responsible for information posted or provided by third-party sources. Readers are encouraged to fact check any information on this web site with other sources.

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