Boston 2024 is quickly learning that the key to public support for the Olympics does not come from high-priced political consultants. The only person to man this sinking ship is Boston Mayor Marty Walsh.
Tonight some of Walsh’s closest allies will hold a meeting at Florian Hall intended to craft a plan to help support the mayor’s efforts.
This meeting comes after Walsh spent the last week going to great lengths to prove to voters he doesn’t provide unconditional support to the group that’s trying bring the Summer Olympics to Boston. He wants the games but must realize he’s the only one who has a shot at closing this deal.
Walsh’s approach to poking holes at Boston 2024’s plans and six-figure salaries for their politically wired employees will ultimately build credibility among voters.
No one wants a politician in a suit regurgitating talking points crafted by consultants. They want a no-nonsense mayor to speak the truth.
Last week, former Gov. Deval Patrick was the victim of Walsh’s media blitz. He successfully took down Patrick on Boston Herald Radio and forced him to refuse his $7,500-a-day consultant fee to promote Boston 2024. Patrick might not take Walsh’s call for a while, but Marty did what was right for the long-term success of this project.
Walsh has even warmed up to a ballot question regarding bringing the games to the Bay State. He learned Bay Staters get furious when they feel their voices don’t matter.
Walsh has been forced to take down Boston 2024 in order to rebuild them back up.
Walsh told me on “Morning Meeting” that former governors Patrick and Mitt Romney should be unpaid global ambassadors that will help Boston 2024’s efforts. It seems Walsh has become their local ambassador.
He’s also built up some trust with the public so when he attends community meetings or talks with constituents about the benefits of the games, people might actually trust his judgment.
Don’t forget Walsh is no stranger to media scrutiny. He’s didn’t exactly get everybody’s endorsement. But in the last year he has proven many wrong.
He’s a winner. Maybe he can do the same for Boston 2024.
Jaclyn Cashman co-hosts “Morning Meeting” from 9 a.m. to noon on Boston Herald Radio. Follow her on Twitter @JaclynCashman.
Boston 2024 is quickly learning that the key to public support for the Olympics does not come from high-priced political consultants. The only person to man this sinking ship is Boston Mayor Marty Walsh.
