One More for the Rep Hunt

As the "blog of record," we'll note today that Edward L. Niemczura is running for Emile Goguen's state representative seat as a Republican.

Niemczura has no political experience, and he has a couple of issues he needs to square away in short order if he's to be taken at least semi-seriously.

First, he needs to get 150 people to sign his nomination papers by today. It might mean a long weekend scouring for names, but immenently doable. In fact, if Niemczura wants to stop by Save Fitchburg World Headquarters this weekend, we'll sign for him, just in the name of democracy and all that.

Second, he needs to, um, polish the message a little bit. It would seem obvious that we would prefer someone above the "average guy" status Niemczura pins on himself. Also, his main platform seems to be giving people a choice. While that's noble and all, his campaign should be a little more issue-based, we think.

All this is a firm reminder of the shabby state of the Republican Party in Massachusetts (perhaps this rant is better served for -- here comes the shameless plug -- Save Massachusetts). The party struggles to find quality candidates for statewide office, and can't even organize a well-structured slate for state representative and senator.

Fitchburg would seemingly offer the GOP a decent opportunity to win a precious House seat. The city isn't adverse to Republicans, the mayor is a GOPer. Goguen was no Democratic standard bearer, and at this point most voters in the city prefer the best guy for the job, whether he or her name is followed by D, R, I, or X.

Instead, a guy who has never run for office is throwing his name in the ring at the last minute, probably with no help from the state party, which could provide some experience and a few dollars. Good luck, Edward Niemczura. You're all alone on this one, but your courage and willingness to step into the breech should be acknowledged. Good for you, but we just wish someone could help you out a little bit.