A sound choice; Spellane steps away from fray.

COLUMN: IN OUR OPINION

State Rep. Robert P. Spellane's decision not to seek re-election next fall is sure to disappoint some of his supporters and delight many of his critics, but it also speaks to the issue of term limits and the political process. Some - including us - advocate for such limits as a means of promoting new ideas and better accountability on Beacon Hill. Mr. Spellane's decision to take himself out of the running illustrates that even in the absence of formal statutes, the laws of politics and human nature impose limits of their own on politicians' ambitions.

Last fall, in the wake of damaging revelations about his personal life and finances, Mr. Spellane faced serious opposition in his re-election bid. He was nonetheless re-elected with nearly two-thirds of the vote.

Now, for whatever combination of political and personal reasons, Mr. Spellane has decided that five terms in the Legislature are enough for him. We think his choice is the right one, and hearkens back to the sound political instincts that inspired him to public service. While his electoral success over the years stands as sufficient proof of his constituents' ongoing support for his legislative work, a decade in the Legislature is a long time for anyone. Residents of the 13th Worcester District deserve a representative able to focus on legislative priorities without the distractions and problems that Mr. Spellane has had in the last year or more, and it never hurts to usher in new ideas and new energy to the Legislature.

By declaring his intentions early and clearly, Mr. Spellane is giving his would-be successors ample opportunity to plan their political futures, and demonstrating to voters and legislators alike that he understands there is a proper time to step away from the fray.