Yet again, Schilling’s business and bluster bleed over into New England politics

Schilling’s business, bluster bleed into politics

BOSTON — Forget two wars, health care and the economy. The hottest political issue in New England right now is Curt Schilling.

The former Boston Red Sox pitcher is back in the center of attention after his startup video game company was offered a sweetheart deal to leave Massachusetts for Rhode Island.

As Republicans rail against government handouts in an era of belt-tightening, all five Rhode Island gubernatorial candidates expressed reservations.

Former Sen. Lincoln Chafee even dredged up the now-discredited notion that Schilling faked the bloody sock that became his signature moment in the 2004 World Series.

Schilling said at a recent news conference that he “will protect the loan guarantee that’s been given by the state.”