Agree, Boston IS a great city, but it is despite Menino not because of him. I grew up in the city neighborhoods, a 4th generation Bostonian and a product of Boston Public Schools. As is the case with many liberals, Menino failed to see the paradox of his own intolerance. Many liberals screech about the need to be diverse and inclusive, yet they shout down all opposing views and dismiss them as racist, bigoted, ignorant, etc. Menino was one of the worst. If you didn’t agree with his leftist agenda, he’d wield the power of his office to silence you. Licensing and contracts in the city were a nightmare for anyone who wouldn’t play by his rules. He also had utter contempt for the 2nd amendment, evidenced by Boston’s ridiculous gun laws. His speech impediment aside, Menino was a corrupt boob who failed (or refused) to grasp the principles of democracy. I left Boston a decade ago for the Carolinas and wish I’d done it sooner. Boston’s a wonderful city to visit, but I’d never live there again. The fact that the populace voted for him speaks to his political savvy, it says nothing about his character or ability. James M. Curley was a beloved Boston mayor too; he served 4 terms as mayor and 2 terms as a prisoner.
Bullmastiff wrote: