The Hiller Instinct: Hiller Instinct: Patrick's Cadillac and drapes

"I'm sorry to have been responsible for that," Governor Patrick said.

Patrick apologized today and says he'll cover the extra cost.

Not so fast. Political Editor Andy Hiller breaks down what appears to be Patrick's first foul up.

Deval Patrick was lucky to be a still-new governor at the State House today. If he were a rookie at spring training, he might already be worried about making the Major Leagues.

Strike one for Patrick is his new Cadillac. After much criticism, Patrick "apologized" for the luxury car he will now help pay for. But his apology wasn't very convincing.

"I am so sorry that we have all spent the kind of time we have on what we have spent time on and I'm sorry to be responsible for that," Governor Patrick said.

Which is very different from what he said last Friday.

"Look, there are all kinds of symbols," Governor Patrick said. "And, frankly, I've got to tell you, with all the other things I'm worried about, this is not one of them."

Strike two: that would be the new furnishings in his office, including $12,000 drapes.

After first billing the state, Patrick now will pay for them, too.

"I think the Governor's office should look nice, and I'm prepared to be a B.Y.O governor, bring your own furniture," Governor Patrick said.

Strike Three: giving a former campaign fund-raiser a $72,000 state job to make appointments for his wife.

"Every governor has had staff to help support the work of the office, including the work of the First Lady," Governor Patrick said. "We just happened to call her by name."

At least the Governor knows the score.

"Did you screw up," Andy Hiller asked.

"Oh yeah, we screwed up," Governor Patrick replied. "We screwed up."

Maybe what the Governor really needs is to spend money on is a secretary of symbolism, because he obviously needs some help. Cadillac’s, fancy furniture and staff for a wife to communicate is a taste for luxury at taxpayers' expense. That is the last symbol Patrick wants, but it's the one he's been sending.

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