Maine's Republican legislative leadership continues to exhibit a significant lack of unity. This issue has become one of the 'givens' of Republican politics in this state, and unfortunately it continues to interfere with the Party's ability to counter the economic maelstrom wrought by Maine Democrats over the last three decades. The schism between House and Senate dissipates the message coming out of both camps, and the opportunity to leverage the will of the people of this state against an entrenched majority party remains out of reach.

Last night's 'State of the State' speech by Governor Baldacci provided a clear example of this problem. Republican House leader Josh Tardy and Republican Senate leader Carol Weston were both interviewed briefly by PolitickerME's Jessica Alaimo after the speech:

Here's Tardy's reaction:

And here's Weston's:

I'm not sure if they watched the same speech. And I'm not sure why Josh Tardy has become the last person in Maine to trust Baldacci's ability to handle this economy. This is a severely weakened administration, Baldacci's negative poll numbers are at the highest point ever, and the people of Maine are ready for change. The Maine GOP has an unbelievable opportunity to make major gains electorally this fall. But more importantly, they have an incredible opportunity to force change in the state's economic situation now. A minority party, unified and in sync with the will of the people of this state, can have a major impact on the proceedings in Augusta. Conciliation to a set of same-old same-old Democrat/Baldacci blather will make the GOP look like it has for years: a less effective version of the same failing ideology.

Weston's full response to the speech touches on some great points, and signals a tough stance against whatever smoke and mirrors Baldacci will use to pay off the remaining political debts he has accumulated before he leaves office. More importantly, it shows the beginnings of a clearly-articulated vision for Maine's future, and shows the GOP to be a party that is ready to take the reigns and bring the best of Maine back again.

I don't understand Tardy's attitude toward this administration right now, I'm sure he's trying his best to get things done in an amicable way. But now is not the time for conciliation and half-measures, Maine's economy is a complete train wreck right now, and a unified GOP could do some incredible things for the people of this state.