Catching up with Scott Avedisian

Warwick Mayor Scott Avedisian remains a figure of interest as we look to the state's political future. Prospering locally as a moderate Republican, the experienced political hand acted prudently (or cautiously) by seeking reelection in 2006, thereby emerging unscathed in a political season when other RI GOPers suffered setbacks or barely survived.

As it stands, Avedisian -- who is having a $500-per-person fundraiser Wednesday at the Valley Country Club -- has another mayoral election this year. The only other announced candidate at this point is Democrat Jack Kirby. Of course, the more interesting question is what the Warwick mayor does in 2010.

Avedisian, who took part in a taping this morning of WPRI/WNAC-TV's Newsmakers, was somewhat elusive in answering questions. I asked about a potential GOP doomsday scenario, in which he might prove too moderate in a gubernatorial primary against Steve Laffey, while Laffey could possibly be too conservative to win a general election (although his image as a reformer could be appealing in light of the state's fiscal woes). Avedisian's response -- which would no doubt be his message -- is that moderate Republicans are the ones who usually enjoy electoral success in Rhode Island.

Avedisian, who is accused by his critics of being too soft on labor, defended his efforts to seek a new contract with Warwick's crossing guards, saying that he backed an agreement that held the line on wages and diminished benefits. After the Democratic city council balked, the city moved forward with plans to hire non-union crossing guards, which has sparked another conflict.

In other highlights:

-- Avedisian, who now backs John McCain after his own candidate (Giuliani) bailed out, says he has not discussed with Lincoln Chafee whom Chafee will endorse in the presidential race.

-- Asked to predict, Avedisian expects Chafee to pursue an "executive" position in 2010. Well, gee, it's not like we expected Linc to run for the General Assembly!