JACKSON – Some have accused Gov. Haley Barbour of bringing Washington-style politics to the Mississippi Capitol.
The reference is to the partisanship that has intensified at the state Capitol during his gubernatorial administration. Barbour bristles at the notion – saying in the past it is Speaker Billy McCoy of Rienzi and the House Democrats responsible for the partisanship.
Recently, McCoy said everyone is responsible for the increased partisanship level and offered that he is willing to share some of the blame.
There is no doubt that Barbour is the state politician with Washington ties. He was President Ronald Reagan’s political director, chair of the Republican National Committee and successful Washington lobbyist who according to reports oversaw a firm that hired only Republicans.
At any rate, Barbour does bring one element of Washington politics to the Magnolia State. All six of his State of State’s speeches, including Tuesday’s, is held in the evening – as is done in Washington with the State of Union speech.
Before Barbour, Mississippi governors traditionally gave the State of State in the afternoon. Barbour says more people have an opportunity to see an evening speech after they get off work.
There is no word on whether Barbour designates one member of his administration not to attend the event – as it done with the president’s cabinet to ensure there will be someone to govern if – God forbid – the Capitol is attacked during the speech.
