Microsoft lobbyist on Patrick technology transition team

So? What's wrong with having a representative from one of the world's largest technology companies helping to advise Governor-elect Patrick on technology?

Andy Updegrove reminds us that Brian Burke, the Microsoft regional director for public affairs, led the fight against the state's effort to standardize on a document format that could have meant a loss of business for Microsoft:

... A new administration needs to earn a reputation for independence from special interests, and adding a lobbyist to an advisory group is a strange way to embark upon that process, especially after Peter Quinn was pilloried in the press over unfounded questions about travel expenses. Although I'm told that Burke announced yesterday at the first meeting of the new working group that he will be participating as a private citizen rather than a Microsoft employee, I believe that Burke should recuse himself from participating in any discussions or recommendations relating to document format standards. ...