Nelson Benton: Premature Speculation in 2nd Essex

Published: February 01, 2008 05:50 am

Local blogs have been rife with speculation about who might be running for the 2nd Essex (Salem, Peabody, Beverly, Danvers and Topsfield) state senate seat next fall.

There's only one problem: Despite recent medical issues, the incumbent, Senate Majority Leader Fred Berry, D-Peabody, has his sights firmly set on seeking re-election in November. And given the quarter-century he has held the seat, it's not likely anyone, Democrat or Republican, is going to take it from him.

Berry, 58, recently found himself back in the hospital, after he suffered a bad reaction to some blood-thinning medication he'd been taking. Certainly his cerebral palsy, combined now with his age, make him susceptible to more aches and illnesses than the average person.

But the fact he has been able to overcome all that and rise to one of the most powerful positions on Beacon Hill is part of what makes the story of Berry's career such a unique and inspirational one.

Interviewed this week at the local rehabilitation hospital where is undergoing physical therapy, Berry said he remains in constant touch with staff and colleagues. Indeed, just this week, he played an integral part in winning passage of the special legislation allowing Salem to borrow money to avoid school layoffs. (Such was his role that Gov. Deval Patrick even offered to come to his hospital room for the bill-signing, an offer Berry declined.)
Those ambitious politicians within the 2nd Essex District who might be looking to hasten his departure should be aware of two things about Berry: His mind is still sharp and he has a long memory.