Faircloth to seek Attorney General post

Representative Faircloth, the House Majority Whip, has let it be known to insiders that he will not be seeking re-election, but will become a candidate for Attorney General in 2008.

In his email to supporters, Rep. Faircloth made his intentions clear when he wrote, ".... I want you to know from me: I won't seek re-election. I've made my choice. After two decades of service, the timing is right to serve as Attorney General."

This is going to be a great battle in the Legislature, and Faircloth is smart to jump out in front in such a visible way this early in the process. It is also a huge bonus for the House and Senate Democrats, as Mr. Faircloth can spend all his time sucking up to these folks – working on their campaigns -- in an attempt to win their votes for the Attorney General position. Early rumors have Janet Mills from Farmington, John Brautigam from Falmouth, Senator Barry Hobbins from York County and Sharon Treat from Hallowell as possible contenders as well.

For you readers that don’t know, Maine has this strange tradition where the Legislators get to pick the Attorney General, Treasurer, Secretary of State and State Auditor. Just in case you were wondering – yes – all of those positions are filled by former Democratic legislators.

It is a ridiculous system that should be changed, and it never will be.