Rumors continue to fly around Trenton that Mayor Doug Palmer might be getting a job in Washington soon. Though Palmer repeatedly denies that he has been offered a job and is concentrating on the city's needs, political pundits believe otherwise.

Everyone wants to know if he is going to Washington. He was a staunch supporter of Hillary Clinton, now slated to be Secretary of State, and those close to the Clinton camp know that Hillary probably made a lot of promises to several politially connected people. Now at the state department, she can make good on a few.

The rumors about Palmer are so intense that even Tony Mack called this newspapeer seeking confirmation of the rumor and if Palmer will in fact hold a press conference announcing his resignation.

But alas it was not true. For now.

Who knows what tomorrow will bring.

There are several city council members - Paul Pintella, Manny Segura, Annette Lartigue - who are chomping at the bit at the possibility of being annoited as Palmer's replacement. But whoever takes Palmer's place in the future have very big political shoes to fill. Even though the residents don't see it, Trenton has amassed a huge power base because of Palmer and that power base leaves with Palmer and the city will be starting over again.

Palmer's legacy will stand for a long time and those seeking office will seek his blessing down the road. Unlike other urban politicians, Palmer has not just a local political slant but a national one. Having served and continues to serve on the national stage gives him a certain political clout that will take anyone else in the mayor's sport a long time to ascertain.

Political pundits are waiting for the king to be removed, but the king's presence will remain long after the king is gone. Many will disagree with this notion, but a Palmer blessing and connections has a greater and farther reach than those with only local one.

So, is Palmer going soon? Who can tell. But if he does go soon, his presence will be felft for a long time.

Trentonian Online News Team