Marty Walsh as Labor Secretary Definitely Works [PHIL-OSOPHY]

I lost the bet. Even though it was a phantom bet, I was banking that Boston Mayor Marty Walsh – who I like – should stay mayor because he is the best example of an impressive public servant. Boston will be hard-pressed to find anyone as adept. Some people are perfect in what they do, and that's why I made a fake bet about him staying put.

That said, Walsh was on the shortlist for Secretary of Labor in the administration of his longtime friend, President-Elect Joe Biden. As a former union president, he has the qualifications, having pivotal connections and good relationships with the high-priority people.

The Secretary of Labor oversees the enforcement of key laws that require employers to pay workers a minimum hourly wage and overtime. These laws affect millions of workers and are the linchpin for ensuring that working families receive essential financial support.

I thought that because he did a great job as mayor, he'd be happier waking up every day doing something he's so good at, but I was wrong – again.

I'm certain he'll set a new standard in Washington, and I wish him Godspeed for a successful tenure. And I'm glad I didn't bet that Rhode Island Gov. Gina Raimondo would be joining Walsh in the new administration. I would have lost that one, too, since she's been picked to be our next U.S. Commerce Secretary.

Phil Paleologos is the host of The Phil Paleologos Show on 1420 WBSM New Bedford. He can be heard weekdays from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m. Contact him at phil@wbsm.com and follow him on Twitter @PhilPaleologos. The opinions expressed in this commentary are solely those of the author.

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