Campaign visit to Massachusetts by Obama a tricky prospect

But there are risks. If Obama visits Massachusetts and Coakley loses, it would signal that Obama’s ability to motivate rank-and-file Democrats has slipped. It would buoy Republican efforts to take back the House and Senate this fall. And it could fuel criticism that he made a political trip while pressing issues awaited in Washington.

“You’re caught between a rock and a hard place here. If you go to campaign, you’re accused of leaving health care and Haiti,’’ said Peter Fenn, a Washington, D.C.-based Democratic consultant. “If you don’t do it, you’re accused of leaving a Senate seat on the table. This is a no-win either way.’’

Brian Walsh, communications director for the National Republican Senatorial Committee, said an Obama visit “cuts both ways.’’ While it’s always helpful to get a boost from a sitting president, an Obama visit “would be a sign that she’s in very deep political trouble,’’ Walsh said.

With four days to go until the special election, the Coakley campaign had not asked for a visit from Obama as of yesterday afternoon, according to national Democratic sources who have been kept apprised of Coakley’s campaign plans. Coakley said in New Bedford yesterday that she would “love’’ to have Obama come to Massachusetts, but added that “I think we can be successful without bringing him here.’’

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