We can't have Codey cause he's too good

In a way, I can't blame Dick Codey for not wanting to ascend to governor or senator in New Jersey. The Star-Ledger wrote about Codey's night in the Greystone mental health facility. He brought pizza, threw a Christmas party, spent the night and stayed for breakfast. I wish that the Star-Ledger would post the photos from the newspaper on that awful Web site they have. They show Codey singing along with a patient, having a chat with two residents, and pulling off his sweater to get ready for bed in a barebones mattress and frame.

A political stunt? For what? He's refused to accept a nomination to the Senate, to the sorrow of many New Jersey residents, and he stepped aside and allowed Corzine to purchase the governorship. He doesn't have to grandstand to improve public opinion - he's got a tremendous approval rating and garnered thousands of write-in votes in the recent election. Everyday there is a headline in the newspaper bemoaning his return to president of the state Senate.

But maybe he realizes he can help more people in that position rather than soiling himself and shoving his convictions to the side just to work with the sleazy New Jersey political establishment. As I was writing this post I listened to a caller from New Jersey to the Randi Rhodes show talk about how he, a self-described "radical lunatic," became co-chairman of his Democratic municipal committee. He said that when they voted to endorse a Dem in the 2004 primary, Dean received a majority of the vote but partybrokers told the media they unanimously endorsed Kerry.

Governor Codey is too good for these people. It's a shame. It's not so bad that Corzine is the best we can do, but what is the point if the people cannot choose who governs them. Things have to change. As the radio caller said, we need to stop listening to the radio, sitting on the computer and get involved in local politics. I have procrastinated but I know it is something I have to do. I'll report back later.

Until then, Governor Codey, you've won us over.