Normally, we wouldn’t take note of an East Coast governor flying across the country to raise money in California, but we think it’s important to call attention to Massachusetts Gov. Deval Patrick, who is visiting Los Angeles for fundraising events tonight and Monday. According to published reports in his home state, Patrick is having trouble funding his run for re-election in the fall. He has been trailing GOP opponent Charles Baker and even the state treasurer, who is running as an independent, has stockpiled more money than Patrick.

Why is the incumbent governor hurting for contributions at home? One big reason is his continued attacks on police benefits and collective bargaining rights. According to officials with the Massachusetts Coalition of Police Officers, Patrick has been chipping away at their right to negotiate health insurance, pensions and work details.

The right to collectively bargain is the backbone of organized labor, and benefits for hard-working public service employees have been under attack since Patrick took office.

We fully support our Massachusetts colleagues, who demand that the governor preserve their established collective bargaining rights.

We trust Gov. Patrick will enjoy the beautiful California sunshine but hope he falls short in his fundraising efforts 3,000 miles from home.