The Democrat Dictator of Massachusetts [OPINION]

Democrats have long insinuated that President Donald Trump would like to be a dictator. The reality is that elected Democrats strive to be dictators and their firm grasp on power here in Massachusetts is a perfect example.

On Saturday, Robert DeLeo (D-Winthrop) became the longest-serving Speaker of the Massachusetts House in the history of the Commonwealth. In 2017, DeLeo had already become the longest continuously serving speaker in state history and it appears likely he will remain "Speaker for life" or at least until he chooses to retire.

When DeLeo was first elected Speaker by House members in 2009, it was on a pledge to restore term limits that would limit a Speaker to four two-year terms. Not long after, DeLeo had a change of heart and lobbied the membership to repeal the term limits. This allows DeLeo, among the most powerful elected officials in all of Massachusetts, to propose and guide favored legislation through the process and freeze out bills to which he is opposed. It also allows him to keep his stooges in line by marginalizing anyone who would challenge him.

DeLeo, an unindicted co-conspirator in an alleged scheme to bribe lawmakers ahead of his election as speaker, replaced the former Democrat Speaker Sal DiMasi, a crook who wound up in prison. DiMasi's predecessor, Democrat Thomas Finneran, was also forced from office under a cloud of suspicion and was later indicted and plead guilty to corruption charges.

By the way, not a single member of our legislative delegation voted to oppose DeLeo when he was re-elected Speaker following the last election. He owns each and every one of them.

DeLeo rules Beacon Hill with an iron fist just like any good dictator would. The Commonwealth is drowning in debt, yet continues to borrow money. The infrastructure is crumbling around us but priority is given to saving the climate, taking care of illegal immigrants, bailing out the MBTA, and making the political class rich. All while raising your taxes.

Way to go, Massachusetts. This is your circus, these are your monkeys.

Barry Richard is the host of The Barry Richard Show on 1420 WBSM New Bedford. He can be heard weekdays from noon to 3 p.m. Contact him at barry@wbsm.com and follow him on Twitter @BarryJRichard58. The opinions expressed in this commentary are solely those of the author.