AsChafee sees it, the state-run loan guarantee program should targetsupport for “50 or more new or existing businesses,” and with a“possible equity stake and board position” for the state in each targetcompany being supported by the program.

To limit risk of taxpayer money, his plan also states that: “No singlebusiness would be eligible to receive a guaranty in excess of 5percent — or $6.25 million — of the $125-million fund, absentcompelling business and job creation reasons to exceed thatgeneral cap.”

     Don't you just love the last part about guarantees being limited to $6.25  "absent compelling business and job creation reasons to exceed that general cap."  Basically, we would be in the same situation with Chafee's plan.  There would be a cap, but it could be ignored if certain government officials saw fit.  I don't know about you, but I have a feeling that a World Series Hero who owns a video game company and promises 400 jobs might be bale to convince some people.  That's the problem.  Chafee might not have been impressed by Schilling, but that doesn't mean he wouldn't agree to an equally stupid deal.

     I'm running for state representative, not governor, but I'd like to throw out my 1 point plan: How about leaving the lending to banks and venture capitalists, and keep the state focused on its actual duties?