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February 23, 2013

Letter: Challenges for post-Scott Brown candidates

Gloucester Daily Times

To the editor:

Regarding the editorial “Tarr deserves credit for tough call” (The Times, Monday, Feb. 18), although state Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr announced he’s not running, it’s suddenly a very crowded Republican field for the upcoming Senate race.

We may see even more entrants before next week’s filing deadline.

But this chorus of contenders faces very real challenges: First, the eventual nominee will need to overcome the perception of being the party’s “second choice” after Scott Brown. This requires both carving out a unique identity and maneuvering beyond the distracting media comparisons to the former senator.

Second, name recognition may be a problem, particularly with the condensed schedule before the April 30 primary and June 25 general election.

Third, and most daunting, outside fund-raising dollars could dry up if national Republicans see the race as a long shot — particularly if Congressmen Ed Markey, D-Malden, and Stephen Lynch, D-South Boston, come roaring out of the gate.

Then again, anything can happen in an off-year special election, where voter turnout tends to wane and earned media can boost an underdog.

ADAM SILBERT

East 78th St., New York, N.Y.

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