Campaign roundup: Wine writer faced tough decision on liquor sales tax; Patrick tries to run as outsider

Robert Dwyer, who writes about wine, will be voting yes on Question 1, which would repeal the sale tax on wine. Dwyer explains why that was no easy decision, especially after he learned that even with the tax, Massachusetts still ranks in the bottom ten states for tax levels on booze.

The Globe profiles Jim McKenna, running for attorney general against Martha Coakley and reports Coakley noted McKenna's existence by attacking his "utter lack of direction." Also, Tim Murray is running hard to stay lieutenant governor.

The Herald reports how Deval Patrick, who has been governor for almost four years now, is trying to run as an outsider, and relays Patrick's assertion that if voters approved Question 3, which would cut the sales tax by more than half, the result will be fare increases on the T and toll hikes for turnpike, Tobin and tunnel drivers. Springfield officals are worried what Question 3 would do to their state aid.

The Patriot Ledger updates us on Senate President Therese Murray's race for re-election. Wicked Local Newton looks at Barney Frank's increaasingly tight race.