Governor\'s Race

The Hiller Instinct: Governor's Race

Which means it's campaign time! And if you haven't checked out the governor's race recently, don't worry, not much has changed.

Deval Patrick is still the front runner, though he has no reason to be confident or cocky. Yes, he's been number one in every poll so far, but the numbers also show how weak he is. In the latest poll, for example, 56% say he's doing a poor or below average job.

But Patrick is a strong campaigner, and catching him won't be easy.

"I will stand up to anybody if that is what it takes!" Governor Patrick said.

"Charlie, Charlie!" the crowd chants.

Republican Charlie Baker has gained ground on Patrick, but is still stuck in second.

Baker's biggest problem is Democrat turned independent Tim Cahill--who blocks Baker from getting a clean shot at Patrick.

So Baker's newest internet ad--out today--strategically lumps Cahill and Patrick together:

"Under Governor Patrick and Treasurer Cahill, taxes went up eight times...$1 billion dollars," the ad states.

"That's the wrong way to do this, we're all about doing it the right way," Baker said.

All the polls also say that Tim Cahill is not going to be the next governor, but he may determine who is.

Cahill seems destined to play the role of spoiler in this race...much like Ross Perot and Ralph Nader in previous presidential races.

Nevertheless, don't expect him to drop out:

"I'm running as an independent, I don't have party infrastructure or apparatus to carry me to the finish line. So I'm hoping these people can help carry me to the finish line."

My suggestions for the candidates:

Governor Patrick: campaign, campaign, campaign...it's what you do best.

Charlie Baker: man up...confront and challenge the governor.

And Tim Cahill: enjoy yourself, because your ride's ending soon.

I’m Andy Hiller, and that’s my instinct.