The Hiller Instinct: Baker announces again

Charlie Baker, (R) Gubernatorial candidate
"Are you surprised to see me?"

How could anyone be surprised? As he filed his campaign papers, Charlie Baker announced for the third time he's a candidate for governor. The second time was yesterday, on the internet, and the first time was earlier this month when he told reporters 'he's in.'

While Baker is relatively unknown statewide, the crush of cameras following him today is proof he's a serious candidate. Serious enough so that while Governor Patrick hasn't said much about his opponents...Patrick' s campaign, a.k.a. the state democratic party, is already attacking Baker for his past performance as a cabinet secretary...calling him 'Big Dig Baker.'

Charlie Baker, (R) Gubernatorial candidate
"I didn't do anything at the big dig. The big dig was being managed by the turnpike authority."

Andy Hiller, 7News Political Editor
"You did nothing that a reasonable person could conclude was a conflict of interest or illegal?"

Charlie Baker, (R) Gubernatorial candidate
"God, no."

Andy Hiller, 7News Political Editor
"There's nothing that you're potentially culpable for?"

Charlie Baker, (R) Gubernatorial candidate
"No."

Andy Hiller, 7News Political Editor
"So you're not Mr. Big Dig?"

Charlie Baker, (R) Gubernatorial candidate
"Hardly."

Baker also promised to fight the latest 25% sales tax hike, and not raise any taxes.

Andy Hiller, 7News Political Editor
"Are you saying read my lips, no new taxes?

Charlie Baker, (R) Gubernatorial candidate
"Yeah, read my lips, no new taxes."

Andy Hiller, 7News Political Editor
"And you know what happened to President Bush, who said that?"

Charlie Baker, (R) Gubernatorial candidate
"I do. I remember Bill Weld saying it, too, and he meant it. "

Andy Hiller, 7News Political Editor
"Under no conditions, no new taxes?"

Andy Hiller, 7News Political Editor
"Correct."

Baker's reference to former governor Weld is also no surprise, since they're both fiscally conservative and relatively moderate republicans. Baker is pro-choice and pro gay marriage, though he is pro-death penalty. On paper, he's a high-powered candidate. But paper doesn't run.

I'm Andy Hiller, that's my instinct.

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