There are many times people ask me why I like covering politics. Besides the obvious answer that politics affect all of us in our everyday lives, I also like the unpredictable nature of the beast.

For instance, who would have thought that Dr. Scott Lively, the conservative fundamentalist minister, would actually receive the affirmation he needs to be on the ballot to challenge Gov. Charlie Baker? According to a press release he sent out last week, he has collected the 10,000 signatures he needs to be on the ballot.

This means – provided of course those signatures are all certified – that Lively would be able to ask Baker for a debate. Regardless of what you might think of Lively and his brand of Republicanism, it would be interesting to see these two candidates talk about how they see the issues here in the Bay State.

If you’re not familiar with Lively, here is part of a release that he sent out on May 5: “I know in my bones that I can beat Charlie Baker in the Republican primary, and then beat whichever Socialist the Dems put forward in the general election.  I believe the Lord will give us a miracle in November that will be ‘a shot heard round the world.’

“We finally have the chance to take back this Commonwealth – but it falls upon you to make a sacrifice.  I know you have a sincere love for America and our constitution.  But can you, like our Founders, actually go so far as to pledge ‘your life, your fortune and your sacred honor’ for the cause of right?  I have done that and I need others to join me.

“The Left mocks these noble sentiments  – for which so many have made even the supreme sacrifice – and this is why they must be removed from power.”

I also receive press releases from Republican candidate for Senate Geoff Diehl on a regular basis and I’ve written several pieces on his effort to win the seat currently held by Elizabeth Warren.

Usually Diehl’s releases detail his belief that Warren has failed the Commonwealth by focusing more on a national constituency.

The other day, though, the release was about a fundraiser featuring an unusual guest – at least unusual to my political sensibilities.

Maine Gov. Paul LePage has received national attention for a variety of issues the most recent for his refusal to expand Medicare in the state after 59 percent of the voters approved it. He is being sued to force him to carry out the voters’ will.

He has a record of being less than polite to those who oppose him as well.

So why would Diehl want to have this guy in his corner? Would someone like LePage appeal to Massachusetts voters?

In any event Diehl is looking for a $1,500 contribution for the host committee; $250 for a photo reception; and  $50 for the general reception.

Is there any Republican you know who would pay $250 for the privilege of getting a photo with Diehl and LePage?

I know Diehl is trying to appeal to a conservative base. In fact, he has spoken several times about his admiration for President Donald Trump and how he would support Trump if elected to the Senate.

So I suppose that Massachusetts voters who endorsed Trump could be inclined to see some value in LePage who enjoys the same kind of maverick reputation, as does the president.

I’m willing to guess though the traditional Massachusetts Republicans who supported Gov. Charlie Baker might not be the same folks willing to shell out $250 for a photo opp with the governor of Maine.

On the other hand, I may be dead wrong. That’s what makes covering politics so interesting.

Shameless plug

Speaking of politics, I hope you can catch the first installment of “30 Minutes With” on FOCUS Springfield and online on YouTube at this link. There was some very good conversation about several issues of the day.