Tom Costello, unsuccessful Democratic candidate for lieutenant governor last fall, is going to keep his hand in the political pot.

He has announced the formation of a political action committee called Advance Vermont.

Costello said the group isn't affiliated with any particular political party. OK, but it is a political action committee which one could anticipate would push for something or someone in the next election.

Costello argues that fundamental restructuring is necessary for health care and economic development, but big changes can't happen this year because of the economic crisis.

"The purpose of Advance Vermont is to take positive and meaningful steps to learn and educate on these issues; to develop the policies which will serve the best interests of the state; and to advocate for them," Costello writes.

It will be interesting to see just which this PAC and Costello do over the coming months. One this is clear, the 2010 election cycle is underway.

-- Nancy Remsen