Romney saves the DNC

Listening to the radio these mornings as I ride to work has had me scratching my head in wonder. Why is Mitt Romney pullling out all the stops to save the Democrats' convention at the Fleet Center? The Boston Police Patrolmen's Association had planned to picket the convention because they had no contract. Several delegations promised not to cross the union's informational picket lines. In steps Romney to save the day, by appointing an arbiter who is forcing Boston and the police union into binding arbitration. The cops may picket, anyway. Tom Keane of the Boston Herald speculates.

Then Romney stepped in. And by doing so, he provided a clear and concrete contrast to Kerry, an object lesson to the nation: This is how Republicans solve a problem. Here's how the GOP might frame it: Romney directly addressed a crisis; Kerry let it fester and grow. Romney defended the mayor; Kerry abandoned him. Romney stuck up for the residents of a city; Kerry sold them out in exchange for his self interest. Romney refused to toady to the tactics of a bully; Kerry let himself be pushed around.

Karl Rove, Bush's political guru, should have a field day with this one.

Moreover, Romney also cemented a new relationship with Menino. The convention ends in nine days. Menino and Romney will both be around for years.

It will be interesting to see if it works out that way. I tend to be skeptical but Mr. Keane has faith.

Menino is fundamentally a pragmatist. He disdains higher office, he isn't seeking to become a Kerry appointee and he'll work with anyone who will help him. Romney came through when it mattered; Kerry did not. Menino, famous for remembering the slights of others, also remembers their kindnesses.

They'll still have to deal with a bunch of ticked off commuters.