News of Massachusetts state Senate President Robert Travaglini's resignation to pursue private interests highlights the central role money plays in politics as well as the human scale and reality of a system that often seems larger than any one individual.
Some associates have noted that Travaglini's resignation is the result of his desire to meet his family's financial needs, as reported in The Boston Globe. With college on the horizon for his children and with retirement looming in the not-too-distant future, it seems that Travaglini's personal goals ultimately outweigh those of his political career. Travaglini has said that he stepped down to spend more time with his family.
But his future career plans are just as noteworthy as the circumstances that brought them to the forefront. His resignation and plan to found a lobbying firm highlight the rich intersection of money and politics. While state law requires him to refrain from lobbying the legislature for one year, Travaglini will stand to profit from his political experience and contacts in the private sector.
Within the legislature itself, Travaglini's resignation allows for new leadership and new ideas to take hold. The elevation of state Senator Therese Murray to the Senate President is a landmark, as she is the first woman to take on the position.
While many battles remain for the legislature to fight, Senator Murray's stances and style could alter policy within Massachusetts. Her experience as chairwoman of the Senate Ways and Means Committee could arm her with the political and policy skills needed to solve Massachusetts' $1 billion budget deficit.
Murray most clearly differs from Travaglini on the topic of same-sex marriage. As a strong supporter of same-sex marriage, Murray's position could allow the issue a larger platform with the legislature. Murray's perspective on hot topics facing Massachusetts could very distinctly alter the Commonwealth's political landscape.
While money may be the invisible hand that guides many issues through the legislative milieu, the very personal side of politics has a huge impact on what the legislature enacts. Perhaps now more than in recent memory, Massachusetts politics is finding this fact to be especially true.
