In fact, that's how the other candidate in the primary race handled his entire campaign. (I'm fairly certain it was "his campaign," as opposed to "her campaign," although I suppose it's possible Calder was running against Jane Amero. If so, she's really let herself go.) This guy is allegedly serving as Senate majority leader. He's probably in the news every day defending the GOP agenda. He's got a solid base of support in someplace like York County. Whoever he is, he probably figured he didn't have to put much effort into pressing the flesh and kissing babies.
Got it! Charlie Summers!
Oops, turns out Summers (who's run for this seat three times without much to show for it) is on this year's ballot, but not for this office. Sorry.
After it became obvious Calder's upset bid was going to fall just short, he did everything necessary to bolster his image (which was just this side of invisible) with the party rank and file by refusing to ask for a recount and promptly endorsing the winner (Oram Lawry? Dean Scontras?). "The primary is over," he said. "We're all on the same side now." He then graciously gestured toward a guy hired to provide the sound system for the press conference, apparently mistaking him for, you know, the candidate who won.
Rollin Ives? Linda Bean?
While Calder awaits his next opportunity to demonstrate his unconscious ability to attract votes, the fellow who squeaked by him (Roland Speers? Tony Payne?) must now prepare for a general election race against the incumbent Democrat, Chellie Pingree. Pingree has plenty of money, a solid organization, and a hedge-fund-manager hubby who owns the major newspaper in her district. Her Republican opponent will have to somehow get by on wit, wiles, and the immense advantage of being . . . hmmm . . .
Jonathan Courtney?
Nah, not likely.
Sometime before the November election, I'll have to look that name up. In the meantime, feel free to email any possibilities to me at aldiamon@herniahill.net. Peter Garland? No, I'm almost certain he's dead.
