Read an interesting report on an Albany-based blog today about a new event being planned by the state's "good government" groups AKA goo-goos. They have invited state leaders, including our Governor, who has proven politically impotent without a campaign, to appear before the public and go "on the record" with their plans for reforming state government.

As a former intern of one of these groups I can't help but be amused by this initiative. Here is the comment (with minor edits for clarity) I've posted at the blog where I read the release:

This is just silly. These officials go "on the record" every time they talk to reporters. Is the idea that they will become more open and willing to enact real reform in front of a live audience? Isn't that what Capital Tonight does? Is there some sort of populist, tea-party-esque aspect to this event that is going to scare these people into complying with the demands of the public?

Or maybe having that many advocacy groups in one room will make them think twice about changing the institutionalized graft that gives incumbents the power to raise obscene campaign funds and then draw their own district lines to ensure their seats stay conformed to the specific shape of their derrières.

As a capital area newspaper reporter, I’m offended by the implication that we don’t do enough to hold elected officials accountable. And as someone who has worked for NYPIRG, maybe they could try mobilizing their network of students for events other than internal board meetings and retreats. It seems like there are two few activists and too many bureaucrats anywhere you look in Albany.

Information on the event can be found here.