Weldon of Frederick steps back even further
The Frederick New-Post is reporting that Del. Rick Weldon has chosen to resign as head of the Frederick County delegation.
It's an important post, because in Maryland, county delegations hold broad authority over legislation affecting that jurisdiction, and, by convention, the full General Assembly defers to the wishes of a county delegation. The delegation head can help shape such matters as local liquor licenses and some tax rates.
Weldon is the Assembly's only independent, having left the Republican Party last fall. He has already announced he is not seeking re-election in 2010. Some Republicans were grumbling that Weldon needed to leave the delegation post after he changed his party affiliation. Weldon told the newspaper that he didn't think he could adequately fulfill his responsibilities as president and CEO of Frederick County's United Way.
Comments
What was Weldon thinking when he didn't resign the chairmanship along with his party membership?
Was it possible he thought he would be re-elected by the delegation?
Was it possible he thought the chairmanship was the will of the electorate?
Weldon apparently thought it was a good thing to claim allegiance to Republican Party principles, which is what voters assume when someone runs as a party member. Weldon was also able to sell the delegation on both his party loyalties and abilities to reach agreement with opponents. His disappointments must be depressing.
We can only hope that he will represent his constituents during the remainder of this term, and thank him for stepping aside early enough for someone with a stronger self understanding to campaign honestly. May the voters not impugn his behaviors to his would be successor.
Posted by: Bruce Robinson | January 7, 2009 11:59 AM