For years the joke was a staple whenever politicians gathered, whether at the old Commodore in Beverly for St. Patrick’s Day or at one of those “times” held to raise money for an influential member of the House or Senate.
So-and-so was leaving his state or city job to enter “the dreaded private sector.”
Now we’re learning why, once entrenched, those in the public employ are so reluctant to leave — the fringe benefits are just too good to give up.
As today’s story shows, in many case you can retire earlier, at a high percentage of your salary, and with better benefits that your private-sector counterparts.
So no wonder all those politicians seem so jolly. Except taxpayers aren’t laughing quite so loudly anymore.
