Posted inCourts, Opinion, Politics

No conviction needed to bar Trump from the ballot

THE CONSTITUTION’S Fourteenth Amendment says that anyone who took an oath to support the Constitution of the United States, but then “engaged in insurrection or rebellion against the same,” is forever disqualified from public office. What does this mean for Donald Trump after the January 6, 2021 insurrection? If Trump chooses to run for president in 2024, […]

Posted inThe Download

Healey plans overhaul of MBTA management

Maura Healey, the lone Democratic candidate vying for governor, released a transportation plan on Tuesday that would overhaul top management at the MBTA, set aggressive electrification goals, and establish low-income fares “with a pathway to fare free buses.”  The plan says Massachusetts cannot have a functioning economy without a functioning transportation system. “Right now, it […]

Posted inBallot Questions, Health, Politics

Abortion rights gaining currency in down-ballot races

WITH POLLS showing Massachusetts voters highly concerned about abortion rights, candidates for office – even for down-ballot jobs that seemingly have little to do with the issue – are coming up with ways to demonstrate it’s a high priority.  Tanisha Sullivan, a Democratic candidate for secretary of state, made abortion rights a centerpiece of her […]

Posted inOpinion

How to use the secretary of state’s office to protect abortion rights

LAST FRIDAY, Gov. Charlie Baker  signed into law a bill codifying several measures first included in an executive order he issued following the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade. When it comes to protecting reproductive freedom, it’s an important start, but not nearly enough. The Dobbs decision represents a critical encroachment on the […]