all chiefs, no indians

I am beginning to wonder if that idiom wasn't meant for the upcoming at-large city council race. Although it isn't quite time yet for candidates who plan to run for district seats to formally announce yet, there just seems to be an excessive number of folks running for an at-large bid. Presumably, the two incumbent at-large city councilors (John Connolly and Stephen Murphy) are going to run for re-election. Nevertheless, we're talking about 4 seats. It's going to be a free-for-all among those two and Felix Arroyo, Jr, Jean-Claude Sanon, Andrew Kenneally, Doug Bennett, Marty Hogan, Ayanna Pressley, Scotland Willis, Tomas Gonzalez, Peter Lin-Marcus, and Ego Ezedi. 

For one thing, it will mark an unprecedented slew of candidates of color embarking on the journey of public service. And I highly doubt that the interest has subsided. As a matter of fact, I know for a fact of at least two others who will be jumping headfirst into the foray in the weeks to come. Plus, I would not be surprised if Ed Flynn and Patricia White threw their hats into the race yet again. Back in 2007, there were 8 candidates vying for the four slots. This time, there may be a good dozen of 'em in the primary. And this isn't even bringing the district races into consideration. Commonwealth Magazine lamented the lack of contested races in Massachusetts. Maybe this could be a sign of the future. Who knows? But I know not to hedge my bets. So let's just suffice it to say that the spring and summer of 209 will definitely be an interesting milestone in Boston's history.