- Racial JusticeEducationMassachusettsAdvocates are marking the 230th anniversary of Ona Judge’s escape by elevating her story and pushing for a fuller, more truthful teaching of American history.
- MassachusettsDemocracyA split City Council vote failed to reject Mayor Wu’s budget, a positive outcome that preserves fiscal continuity and avoids a destabilizing confrontation while keeping focus on governing the city.
- MassachusettsMassachusetts Senate advanced a $63.4 billion budget—adding $70.5 million for priorities and clearing more than 1,000 amendments—moving talks with the House toward a final plan.
- MassachusettsThe state Senate unanimously approved an amendment to install new infrastructure and multi-sensory warning devices to deter wrong-way drivers, a safety-focused response after a state trooper was killed.
- HousingMassachusettsMassachusetts Gov. Maura Healey and Attorney General Andrea Campbell warned they will crack down on brokers and landlords charging illegal fees, strengthening protections for renters against unlawful charges.
- MassachusettsBoston City Council voted to preserve recent pay raises, keeping council members' annual salary at $125,000 to maintain competitive compensation and support effective local governance.
- MassachusettsEconomic JusticeLaborHousingMayor Garcia says Holyoke is on strong footing after securing a fiscal surplus, investing in the workforce, and achieving development gains — a progressive win that boosts local economic stability and housing prospects.
- Voting RightsDemocracyMassachusettsDemocrats achieved a progressive win by holding all nine Massachusetts House seats despite Trump winning 36% of the 2024 vote, highlighting strong Democratic representation and challenging GOP defenses of aggressive gerrymandering in red states.
- MassachusettsGovernor Maura Healey removed CCC chair O’Brien and appointed three new regulators—a former state revenue commissioner, a Western Mass. economic development official, and a city government lawyer—to reshape the Cannabis Control Commission and advance cannabis reform under the new law.
- MassachusettsDemocracyGov. Maura Healey holds comfortable leads over two Republican challengers in a new poll, signaling continued voter support for the progressive incumbent.
- MassachusettsCriminal Justice ReformLaborThe Massachusetts House approved a bill to raise the maximum age for Boston Police Academy applicants to 44, opening police careers to older candidates and helping diversify and expand the force.
- DemocracyMassachusettsCommonWealth Beacon celebrates 30 years of reporting that advances political transparency and the common good, with founding editor Dave Denison and current editor Laura Colarusso reflecting on its enduring democratic mission.
- DemocracyMassachusettsDNC leaders touring Boston as a potential 2028 convention host is a win for progressives, bringing national attention and potential civic engagement to a safe, walkable, historically significant Massachusetts city. [2]
- DemocracyMassachusettsHosting the 2028 Democratic National Convention could bring Boston as much as $400 million in economic benefits, a major civic and economic win for the city.
- HousingEconomic JusticeMassachusettsOne year after enactment, Massachusetts’ eviction-sealing law is showing promise by letting tenants clear certain eviction records to reduce barriers to renting, buying a home, and finding employment, though awareness of the law remains limited.
- EducationMassachusettsMassachusetts saw a reduction in student absenteeism—a hopeful step toward recovering pandemic-era learning losses—even though rates remain higher than before COVID.
- HealthcareMassachusettsMassachusetts is urged to join the 43 states allowing psychologists to provide telehealth across state lines, a move that would expand access to and continuity of behavioral health care.
- DemocracyMassachusettsAttorney General Andrea Campbell announced the auditor can hire an attorney to force an audit of the Legislature after a Supreme Judicial Court order, a win for government accountability and transparency.
- MassachusettsDemocracyMassachusetts auditor secured a commitment allowing her office to appoint its own attorney to represent the will of the people in a long-running audit dispute with lawmakers.
- MassachusettsDemocracyIn a win for government accountability, Auditor DiZoglio can hire a special attorney general in her standoff with the Legislature, reaffirming voters' decision a year and a half ago to give her authority to audit the House and Senate.
- ImmigrationEducationRacial JusticeMassachusettsA Guatemalan-born Lynn mother and educator who was arrested after a racially profiled traffic stop in 2013 has temporarily avoided deportation by ICE.
- EducationMassachusettsBrookline voters overwhelmingly approved a tax override to preserve funding for schools and public safety, preventing cuts to education and services.
- HealthcareMassachusettsLawmakers announced a win for local healthcare after Baystate’s takeover saved Mercy Medical from imminent closure and preserved plans to build a 90,000-square-foot community health center on land donated by MassMutual.
- ImmigrationVoting RightsDemocracyMassachusettsNearly 200 people were sworn in as U.S. citizens at a Western Massachusetts ceremony, a pro-democracy and pro-immigrant milestone as Judge Elizabeth D. Katz urged the vital importance of voting.
- ImmigrationMassachusettsThe Massachusetts Senate passed a bill to protect immigrants — a significant step toward reining in ICE and safeguarding immigrant communities, though differences with the House must be resolved before Gov. Healey can sign it.
- MassachusettsDemocracyMassachusetts Sen. Elizabeth Warren raised $400,000 to support Democratic Senate candidates in six battleground states, backing contenders like Maine's Graham Platner to help the party capitalize on President Trump's sagging approval ratings. [2]
- HealthcareMassachusettsMassachusetts has identified regulatory reforms to prevent future Norwood-style hospital failures, offering a pathway to protect communities and shore up healthcare access if it builds and implements the needed tools.
- MassachusettsDemocracyProgressive Sen. Ed Markey has taken the lead over Rep. Seth Moulton in the Massachusetts Senate race, according to a new Emerson College poll.
- EducationMassachusettsMassachusetts Attorney General Andrea J. Campbell launched a $500,000 grant program to help schools implement cell phone bans and foster learning-focused environments for students and teachers.
- LaborEducationEconomic JusticeMassachusettsHolyoke teachers won a tentative contract that includes a 20% pay increase and expanded benefits, creating the region’s highest starting salary as the district transitions out of state oversight.
- HealthcareEducationMassachusettsBoston City Council urged Boston Public Schools to explore joining nationwide litigation against social media companies to protect students from addictive online features, marking a progressive step for youth health and education.
- MassachusettsClimateEnvironmentGovernor Healey filed a new bill to better regulate e-bikes, scooters, and other micromobility devices, advancing public safety and clearer rules to support safe, low-emission transportation options.
- HousingMassachusettsMarblehead has finally passed MBTA Act zoning, a positive step toward enabling denser, transit-oriented housing to help address the region’s housing needs.
- Economic JusticeCriminal Justice ReformMassachusettsThe Massachusetts Senate budget advances a progressive win by proposing a $53 million increase in state aid to cities and towns while overhauling sheriff funding and making it easier to cancel subscriptions.
- DemocracyMassachusettsChicopee city council is considering joining calls for the first comprehensive audit of the state Legislature since 1922, bolstering efforts for government transparency and accountability.
- MassachusettsEconomic JusticeThe Massachusetts Senate moved to bridge regional divides by approving a substantial increase in local aid funding to help municipalities cope with rising economic pressures.
- MassachusettsMass. Gov. Maura Healey proposed measures to crack down on speeding scooters and mopeds to cut congestion, improve road safety, and hold riders accountable.
- New YorkMassachusettsEconomic JusticeThe New York Archdiocese proposed an $800 million settlement to compensate over 1,300 survivors, marking a major step toward accountability and restitution for abuse victims and continuing a nationwide movement that began in Boston.
- HealthcareMassachusettsMassachusetts secured a federal court-enforced Marsters v. Healey settlement committing over $1 billion to transition at least 2,400 residents with serious mental illness and other disabilities out of nursing facilities into community-based care over eight years.
- DemocracyMassachusettsSen. Elizabeth Warren will campaign in Iowa for progressive Senate candidate Zach Wahls, lending high-profile support that boosts the progressive insurgent effort against the Democratic establishment.
- EducationMassachusettsSpringfield Public Schools used part of a $1 million Commonwealth Preschool Partnership Initiative grant to expand access to early-childhood education through the Foundations For Success program, improving preschool access for local children.
- MassachusettsLaborEducationEconomic JusticeDemocracyRank-and-file reformers in Massachusetts transformed the teachers union from a cautious, staff-driven organization into a militant, member-led force that struck to win stronger contracts and pushed for taxing the rich.
- EducationHousingEconomic JusticeMassachusettsThe Massachusetts House passed a $63.4 billion budget that increases aid to struggling schools, cities, and towns— a progressive win aimed at easing affordability pressures and addressing the housing crisis across the commonwealth.
- HousingEconomic JusticeMassachusettsA state initiative is expanding access to lawyers for low-income tenants in eviction cases to help prevent families from losing both housing and subsidies and avert dire outcomes.
- HousingMassachusettsEconomic JusticeMassachusetts Gov. Maura Healey expanded no-interest homebuyer loans to increase affordable access to homeownership for more residents.
- HousingMassachusettsMayor Michelle Wu pushed back on a Republican candidate's attack on Boston's office-to-residential conversions, defending the city's housing plan as a progressive win for expanding housing in Massachusetts.
- EnvironmentMassachusettsClimateLynn is investing $120 million in a sewer upgrade to reduce combined sewer overflows, improve water quality, and restore its long-polluted coastline.
- MassachusettsFans scored a win as FIFA reversed course and the Boston host committee announced tailgating will be allowed for all seven World Cup matches at Gillette Stadium.
- HousingMassachusettsBoston is using a new city program to convert vacant downtown office buildings into much‑needed housing, helping revive the city center as remote and hybrid work empties offices.
- MassachusettsInternational runners at the Boston Marathon paused their own races to support a collapsing Massachusetts student and help him across the finish line, a heartening example of community solidarity and compassion.
- ClimateMassachusettsEnvironmentSenate energy chair signaled a departure from the House's proposed $1 billion cut to Mass Save, a positive development that could preserve energy-efficiency funding, help lower bills, and advance Massachusetts' climate goals.
- MassachusettsEconomic JusticeMassachusetts is poised to pass once-in-a-decade consumer protections that would transform its weak safeguards against predatory electric suppliers into some of the strongest in the nation.
- MassachusettsDemocracyProgressive U.S. Sen. Ed Markey maintains a firm lead over Rep. Seth Moulton in a new UNH Democratic primary poll, marking a win for progressive incumbency in Massachusetts.
- HealthcareMassachusettsMassachusetts' highest court affirmed $56 million in punitive damages against Philip Morris in a wrongful-death suit, upholding accountability for the tobacco company's role in causing harm.
- ClimateEnvironmentMassachusettsMassachusetts Attorney General Andrea Campbell ordered major gas utilities to overhaul their climate plans or face penalties, marking a win for climate accountability and the state's push to move utilities away from fossil-fuel reliance.
- HousingMassachusettsMassachusetts has made measurable progress increasing housing production and affordability, a positive step toward statewide housing goals even though the state still falls short of its targets.
- HealthcareMassachusettsMassachusetts is poised to join other governments in proposing age restrictions on social media to better protect young users’ health and safety.
- MassachusettsLaborEconomic JusticeThe Pentagon’s push to gear Detroit for wartime production is poised to revive manufacturing, create good union jobs, and could bring similar economic and labor benefits to Massachusetts.
- Economic JusticeMassachusettsMassachusetts Gov. Healey’s administration launched a task force to shore up SNAP benefits ahead of federal cuts, a proactive step to protect households amid a record-high 40% food insecurity rate in 2025.
- Economic JusticeMassachusettsPositive development: Governor Maura Healey pitched a $305 million economic development bill to help Massachusetts move faster against global competition and strengthen the state's economy.
- ImmigrationMassachusettsThe House is advancing a bill to protect Haitian immigrants and others from the Trump administration’s attempt to terminate their humanitarian status, marking a progressive rebuke and a step toward safeguarding people from crisis-stricken countries.
- ClimateEnvironmentMassachusettsIn a bipartisan win, the Massachusetts Senate passed a $3.64 billion environmental bond bill—the state's first since 2018—to accelerate climate adaptation efforts and bolster environmental resilience.
- ImmigrationMassachusettsMassachusetts Rep. Ayanna Pressley scored a win as Congress moved closer to voting on a bill to extend temporary protected status for Haitian immigrants, helping preserve legal protections for thousands.
- Racial JusticeEducationDemocracyMassachusettsLaw students led a public civil rights program at Wistariahurst Museum in Holyoke, bringing together community members and civic partners to advance racial justice and civic engagement.
- MassachusettsEconomic JusticeThe Massachusetts House advanced a $63 billion spending plan that boosts state investment without raising taxes on residents, a fiscally responsible win amid economic uncertainty. [2]
- MassachusettsDemocracyA new Suffolk/Globe poll shows Massachusetts Democrats Sen. Ed Markey and Gov. Maura Healey enjoying high favorability, a positive sign for Democratic momentum ahead of 2026. [2]
- HealthcareMassachusettsDemocracyOn its 20th anniversary, RomneyCare is celebrated as a bipartisan Massachusetts achievement that expanded health coverage and offers a hopeful model for effective, constructive policymaking.
- HealthcareMassachusettsMassachusetts Gov. Maura Healey proposed a progressive plan to limit youth social media to two hours a day and backs a ban for children under 14 to protect young people's health and wellbeing.
- LGBTQ RightsMassachusettsHolyoke Pride advances LGBTQ visibility and community engagement by hosting a screening of the documentary ‘1946: The Mistranslation That Shifted Culture’ with composer Mary Lambert attending for a post-film Q&A.
- HealthcareMassachusettsBipartisan praise for Romneycare and Gov. Healey's call for a state-led 'revolution' signal momentum for progressive healthcare reforms in Massachusetts. [2]
- HealthcareHousingMassachusettsVeterans and local tradespeople are celebrating as the state prepares to begin moving veterans into the new Holyoke Veterans Home in September, a major positive step for veterans’ housing and care.
- MassachusettsThe Massachusetts Senate extended a 20-cent fee on ride-hailing services by removing the 2016 law’s sunset clause, preserving a steady funding stream for transportation and transit programs.
- HealthcareMassachusettsBipartisan leaders—including four former governors and Gov. Maura Healey—celebrated Massachusetts’ landmark 2006 'Romneycare' law as a successful, bipartisan achievement that expanded health coverage by requiring all state residents to have insurance.
- HealthcareEconomic JusticeMassachusettsEasthampton’s mayor announced a Proposition 2½ override to shore up municipal funding and protect local services amid rising healthcare costs and inflation.
- EducationMassachusettsIn a progressive win, eight Western Massachusetts schools will receive grants funded by the Fair Share surtax, with the largest award going to Chicopee's Sgt. Robert Litwin School to replace its gymnasium floor.
- EducationMassachusettsMassachusetts adopted a new high school graduation approach using reciprocal accountability—setting high statewide expectations while allowing districts to innovate how students demonstrate mastery, with the state committing to provide needed supports.
- Racial JusticeMassachusettsNative American women, including Apache runner Missy Hendricks, are breaking barriers and gaining visibility by competing in the Boston Marathon, highlighting Indigenous athletic achievement and representation.
- MassachusettsHealthcareIn a first-of-its-kind decision, the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court ruled that the 1996 law shielding platforms doesn’t automatically block lawsuits alleging Meta designed addictive features that exploited young users, paving the way for greater legal accountability of tech companies.
- Voting RightsMassachusettsDemocracyA federal judge dismissed the DOJ's lawsuit seeking Massachusetts voter data, ruling the federal government failed to justify the demand—a win for voting rights and voter privacy.
- HealthcareHousingCriminal Justice ReformMassachusettsA positive development: the state has committed $4 million to fund housing, treatment, and diversion programs addressing the substance use crisis in Boston’s Mass. and Cass area.
- MassachusettsA beloved Massachusetts candy bar that nearly vanished is being saved by a bill proposing it be designated the state's official chocolate bar.
- Voting RightsDemocracyMassachusettsA federal judge rejected Trump’s lawsuit seeking Massachusetts’ unredacted voter list, blocking a privacy-invasive 'fishing expedition' and protecting voters’ personal information.
- Voting RightsDemocracyMassachusettsA judge dismissed the Trump administration's lawsuit seeking Massachusetts voters' personal information, protecting voter privacy and upholding voting rights and democratic safeguards.
- HealthcareMassachusettsTwenty years after Romneycare, Massachusetts leads the nation in health coverage, marking a major progressive achievement in access to care despite ongoing affordability challenges.
- HealthcareMassachusettsDemocracyMassachusetts' health care reform met the moral moment by expanding coverage to nearly all residents, demonstrating a progressive model for universal health care. [2]
- HealthcareMassachusettsMassachusetts' Chapter 58 health-care reform fulfilled its promise by dramatically reducing the uninsured rate, bringing the state to the lowest level of uninsurance in the nation. [2] [3] [4]
- MassachusettsEducationProgressive win: the Massachusetts House passed a bill to ban children under 14 from social media and bar cellphone use during the school day to protect kids' wellbeing and learning.
- EducationLaborEconomic JusticeMassachusettsThe Family Childcare Success Project in Worcester launched a rent-free family child care incubator — only the third in the nation — to help early childhood educators start their own businesses and expand child care slots.
- HealthcareHousingImmigrationRacial JusticeMassachusettsDemocracyFormer refugee Vanna Howard was elected as the first Cambodian American state senator in the U.S., representing Lowell, Massachusetts, and plans to prioritize housing, health care, and immigrant communities.
- ClimateEnvironmentMassachusettsHousingMassachusetts lawmakers are advancing a $3.6 billion climate plan that would ban plastic bags, fund clean-water efforts, and require sellers and landlords to disclose flood risks to buyers and tenants.
- MassachusettsImmigrationHousingHealthcareRacial JusticeVanna Howard, a Lowell resident who fled to a refugee camp at age 11, was elected as the first Cambodian American state senator in the U.S. and plans to prioritize housing, health care, and support for immigrant communities.
- MassachusettsA Massachusetts state program has achieved a progressive win by repairing nearly 1,700 miles of roads in record time, and the Healey administration says a comprehensive transportation bond bill will likely come in the next legislative session to continue the work.
- MassachusettsEducationRacial JusticeU.S. Rep. Ayanna Pressley is holding a community read-in in Somerville to unveil legislation, supported by major publishers and advocacy groups, aimed at fighting book bans that target marginalized authors.
- Economic JusticeMassachusettsMassachusetts will pilot chip-enabled SNAP benefit cards later this year to curb fraud and protect assistance, becoming the third state to adopt the technology.
- EducationMassachusettsMassachusetts lawmakers are advancing a progressive win for students by moving to ban youth social media use and impose strict school cellphone restrictions, with cities like Quincy already adopting similar policies.
- ClimateEnvironmentMassachusettsGovernor Maura Healey signed an executive order directing state agencies to increase power in an effort to drive down energy costs, a step toward lowering bills for residents.
- MassachusettsDemocracyMassachusetts’ partnership with OpenAI to deploy a state AI assistant to democratize innovation and streamline DMV and other government services is a progressive step toward more accessible, efficient public services while tackling privacy and bias concerns.
- EducationMassachusettsLaborEconomic JusticeMassachusetts is rethinking the structure and funding of career and technical education to expand access for young people and help the state meet its growing demand for skilled workers.
- MassachusettsEconomic JusticeRep. McGovern announced a combined $1 million in funding — including $165,000 to renovate the landmark Shea Theater and support Avenue A — a boost to Montague’s revitalization and local economy.
- MassachusettsCriminal Justice ReformDemocracyMass. lawmakers hailed former Attorney General Pam Bondi's firing by Trump as a victory against corruption and a step toward transparency in efforts to release Jeffrey Epstein files.
- ImmigrationMassachusettsThe Massachusetts Senate budget allocates $1 million to fund legal defense for immigrants, expanding access to counsel and strengthening immigrant rights.
- MassachusettsDemocracyMassachusetts politicians welcomed Pam Bondi’s removal as attorney general as a win for restoring the Justice Department’s independence from the White House and for democratic accountability.
- HealthcareEducationMassachusettsMassachusetts lawmakers are moving a $10 million pilot to cover UMass Chan medical school tuition for students who commit to practicing family medicine in the state, expanding access to primary care.
- MassachusettsEducationEconomic JusticeThe Massachusetts Senate moved forward a $1.8 billion relief bill to support struggling schools and municipalities, a significant win for communities and public education.
- ClimateMassachusettsRep. Richard Neal and state transportation officials secured a $1.2 million federal earmark for advanced train controls on the Knowledge Corridor, a boost that advances west–east rail service between Springfield and Greenfield.
- Economic JusticeHousingMassachusettsBoston City Councilor Louijeune is pushing to expand a $1,000 property tax exemption so more seniors would qualify, providing needed financial relief amid a gloomy budget outlook.
- MassachusettsEconomic JusticeClimateEnvironmentProgressive win: Massachusetts Sen. Markey unveiled a 'Ratepayer Roadmap' to protect consumers from subsidizing data centers and relieve households facing soaring electricity bills.
- ImmigrationMassachusettsA federal judge in Massachusetts ordered the Trump administration to reinstate the legal status of migrants who used a Biden-era entry app, ruling the revocations unlawful.
- MassachusettsMassachusetts Gov. Maura Healey made a lighthearted guest cameo in a viral Watertown creator’s ‘Seger bar’ video — a positive example of a progressive leader engaging with local culture and community.
- HousingEconomic JusticeMassachusettsWorcester’s 'A Better Life' housing program is helping break generational poverty by promoting resident self-sufficiency and supportive services that stabilize housing and economic prospects even as federal proposals push work requirements and time limits.
- DemocracyMassachusettsA new UMass Amherst poll shows President Trump's public approval is plunging, a positive development for Democrats and their prospects in the 2026 midterms.
- Economic JusticeMassachusettsMassachusetts regulator Galvin fined an online poster who promised to trade stocks like Pelosi and Buffett for distributing misleading, stale tips, a win for investor protection and market transparency.
- EnvironmentClimateRacial JusticeDemocracyMassachusettsA new PBS documentary revives Henry David Thoreau’s legacy—spotlighting his environmentalism, antiwar activism, abolitionism, and indigenous rights advocacy—and offers a timely progressive reminder to hold America to its democratic ideals.
- MassachusettsMassDOT, Amtrak, and Connecticut rail agencies are advancing plans for hourly Springfield–New York City service and adding two daily Boston–Springfield trains by 2030 as part of the West–East inland route, marking progress on expanded rail connectivity in Western Massachusetts.
- MassachusettsCriminal Justice ReformDemocracyMassachusetts is rolling out Wi‑Fi to all 94 courthouses this summer, a progressive win that improves jurors' access and court operations after leaders lobbied for $13 million in funding.
- ImmigrationRacial JusticeDemocracyMassachusettsTens of thousands rallied in Boston’s “No Kings” protest to oppose Trump and chant “No ICE, no KKK, no fascist USA,” marking a major progressive mobilization for immigration and racial justice.
- ClimateMassachusettsEnvironmentHousingMassachusetts is holding the most extensive statewide conversation in its history about managed retreat, proactively planning to relocate people, homes, and communities from flood-prone areas to build climate resilience.
- Economic JusticeMassachusettsSen. Elizabeth Warren introduced a wealth tax bill targeting households worth over $50 million and billionaires, marking a progressive win as wealth taxes gain momentum nationwide and could raise trillions for public needs.
- HousingMassachusettsAllowing religious organizations in Massachusetts to build housing on vacant church land could unlock hundreds of thousands of new homes and help alleviate the state's housing crisis.
- EducationMassachusettsBoston is launching a program, backed by a $1 million seed grant from entrepreneur Paul English, to ensure every high school graduate learns to use AI critically.
- MassachusettsKraft-owned New England Revolution is backing a public-private renovation of White Stadium, a positive development that brings private investment and community benefits to a Massachusetts neighborhood.
- MassachusettsGovernor Healey launched a public safety initiative for the 2026 World Cup, using Thursday’s Foxborough friendly as a trial run to strengthen crowd safety and preparedness for seven summer matches.
- MassachusettsDemocracyMassachusetts’ attorney general says her office and the state auditor are nearing agreement on a pathway forward in a prolonged audit dispute with the Legislature, marking progress toward accountability and resolution.
- LaborMassachusettsEducationMassachusetts Building Trades Unions endorsed Gov. Maura T. Healey for reelection, a pro-labor development aiming to secure support for projects like the Springfield courthouse and higher education work to keep members employed.
- MassachusettsDemocracyCouncilor Richard Purcell is empowering Holyoke residents by hosting an April 3 Ward 4 meeting that gives neighbors a direct chance to share concerns with city leaders.
- MassachusettsEconomic JusticeMassachusetts Attorney General sued to block USDA conditions she says would coerce recipients and threaten access to critical food programs and agricultural funding, defending communities’ ability to receive essential support.
- MassachusettsEconomic JusticeLaborHousingEducationUMass reports that moving research and development into more affordable Western Massachusetts could protect millions of jobs and $347 billion in economic activity threatened by federal cuts while easing housing and cost pressures in Greater Boston.
- MassachusettsFormer first lady Jill Biden will visit Boston this summer to celebrate her new book “View From The East Wing,” giving local readers a chance to engage with an educator and public figure in person.
- Economic JusticeEnvironmentMassachusettsThe Massachusetts Senate’s farm bill, headed for an early-April vote, is a progressive win that boosts agritourism and local food access by supporting farmers with economic development, infrastructure investment, and food-system planning.
- ImmigrationCriminal Justice ReformMassachusettsMassachusetts lawmakers are advancing a progressive bill that limits ICE involvement by giving police clear guidance while protecting victims, witnesses and defendants.
- MassachusettsThe Massachusetts Senate approved a ban on retail sales of dogs, cats and rabbits in pet shops—a progressive win that imposes fines up to $5,000 with proceeds directed to a Homeless Animal Prevention and Care Fund.
- ImmigrationMassachusettsAt the Holyoke St. Patrick’s Parade in Massachusetts, organizers kicked off the event with a call for immigration reform and honored Irish Olympic boxer Katie Taylor with the Ambassador Award celebrating strengthened U.S.–Ireland ties.
- DemocracyEconomic JusticeMassachusettsSen. Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts endorsed progressive Maine Senate candidate Graham Platner, praising his "fighting spirit" and giving a major boost to a campaign framed as a fight against Wall Street and economic inequality. [2] [3] [4]
- ImmigrationMassachusettsMassachusetts lawmakers are moving toward a vote on a comprehensive bill to protect immigrants' due process and curb local law enforcement cooperation with ICE, a major step that empowers immigrants to choose courage over fear.
- DemocracyMassachusettsSen. Elizabeth Warren's endorsement of Platner for the Maine Senate seat delivers a notable progressive boost despite acknowledging Platner's controversial past statements.
- MassachusettsThe Cannabis Control Commission, led by Chair Shannon O’Brien, is moving to use 'secret shoppers' to proactively enforce marijuana rules and deter businesses from skirting regulations, strengthening consumer protection and compliance.
- ImmigrationCriminal Justice ReformMassachusettsMassachusetts House is set to vote soon on a bill that would ban ICE arrests in courthouses and bar new agreements letting local police act as immigration officers, marking a win for immigrant protections and safer access to courts.
- EducationRacial JusticeMassachusettsA state review found Easthampton Public Schools responded promptly to year-long reports of antisemitism, marking a positive step toward protecting students and addressing bias.
- MassachusettsEducationEconomic JusticeMassachusetts House advanced a $1.8 billion plan funded by the Millionaires’ Tax, a progressive win that channels $885 million into transportation and $417 million into education.
- MassachusettsRecognizing the overlooked Evacuation Day and its unsung Boston hero celebrates Massachusetts' rich Revolutionary history and strengthens public awareness of local contributions to American independence.
- HousingMassachusettsA poll finds 84% of Massachusetts residents want the state legislature to take stronger action to build more housing and reduce housing costs, signaling broad public support for progressive housing reforms.
- MassachusettsMassachusetts is taking a positive step by modernizing all 18 highway service plazas to better serve residents and visitors while boosting and optimizing rental revenue.
- HousingMassachusettsA Massachusetts senator secured bipartisan backing from most Senate Republicans to harmoniously pass an expansive housing bill, marking a major progressive win for housing reform. [2] [3] [4] [5]
- ImmigrationMassachusettsA federal judge ordered the release of a teen detained by ICE in Marlborough, and federal officials returned her to Massachusetts.
- Racial JusticeMassachusettsProgressive win: 19 Western Massachusetts nonprofit agencies vulnerable to hate crimes, including many churches and faith-based organizations, received safety grants to better protect their communities.
- HealthcareMassachusettsDisabilities advocates are advancing bills at the State House to establish supported decision-making and stronger standards of care for people with autism and intellectual and developmental disabilities.
- MassachusettsSpringfield is poised to approve a record-breaking budget topping $1 billion for the first time, a positive development that could expand city services as budget hearings begin next week.
- HealthcareRacial JusticeReproductive RightsMassachusettsMassachusetts is launching a doula certification this spring as part of implementing 20+ provisions of the 2024 maternal health law to expand access to services and reduce racial disparities in care.
- EducationMassachusettsDemocracyIn a unanimous decision, the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court ruled that charter schools are subject to public records law, a win for transparency and accountability in publicly funded education.
- MassachusettsEconomic JusticeGovernor Healey touted new investments from P&G Gillette, GE Aerospace, and Whoop as a positive win for Massachusetts’ economy, promising jobs and growth while acknowledging ongoing affordability challenges.
- Economic JusticeMassachusettsMassachusetts Attorney General Maura Healey is pressing for billions in tariff refunds for residents after the Supreme Court struck down the tariffs, securing a major consumer-focused win.
- EnvironmentMassachusettsA progressive win: advocates are pushing to hire a new MWRA executive director committed to finishing the cleanup of the Charles and Mystic rivers and stopping polluting combined sewer overflows, building on the successful Boston Harbor restoration.
- ImmigrationMassachusettsMayor Michelle Wu secured millions in new public-private funding from three major philanthropic organizations to expand legal services, basic necessities, and other supports for immigrants.
- MassachusettsEconomic JusticeGov. Healey is proposing to direct more casino revenue into local tourism to shore up an underfunded industry and boost Massachusetts’ economy.
- ImmigrationMassachusettsState officials welcomed an appeals court ruling extending Temporary Protected Status for Haitians, a major win for the large Haitian community in Massachusetts.
- ClimateEnvironmentMassachusettsEconomic JusticeThe Massachusetts House approved H 5151, a bill projected to save utility ratepayers more than $9 billion over the next decade by trimming Mass Save marketing spending.
- ClimateEconomic JusticeMassachusettsEnvironmentHousingA Massachusetts climate bank would be a fiscally responsible way to improve affordability, strengthen the state economy, and sustain its leadership on climate action.
- MassachusettsAfter talks of relocating the tournament, the Basketball Hall of Fame pledged to invest in Springfield courts and the board signaled support for CEO John Doleva, a win for the local community.
- HealthcareMassachusettsProgressive win: Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey defended consumer choice and pushed back against RFK Jr.'s safety claims by defiantly challenging his request to test Dunkin' and Starbucks ingredients. [2]
- ImmigrationMassachusettsRacial JusticeCriminal Justice ReformGov. Maura Healey pushed federal officials to release full ICE arrest data in Massachusetts, a transparency win that helps protect immigrant parents, caregivers, and workers and their families.
- MassachusettsEnvironmentMassachusetts lawmakers are moving to designate the American lobster as the state's official crustacean, a symbolic but welcome step recognizing the iconic species.
- HousingMassachusettsState supreme court judges signaled skepticism toward Marshfield’s challenge to the MBTA Communities zoning law, a positive development for pro-housing advocates and the law’s continued implementation.
- MassachusettsDemocracyMassachusetts Gov. Maura Healey turned a spat over comments about a coffee chain into a successful re-election fundraising surge, energizing supporters with a 'Come and take it' photo.
- EducationMassachusettsHarvard reached a new agreement allowing military students to defer enrollment beyond the Trump presidency, preserving their access to Harvard after the administration cut ties with its military education programs.
- MassachusettsEducationDemocracyGov. Maura Healey has allocated more than $500,000 to expand digitization and preservation efforts at the Massachusetts State House Library as it begins its second century, boosting public access to historic documents.
- DemocracyMassachusettsBoston Mayor Michelle Wu will hold the city's first-ever public 'office hours,' a transparency and accountability win that gives residents direct access to tell her what’s working and what isn’t.
- Racial JusticeMassachusettsDemocracyState Rep. Vanna Howard won a special election for the Lowell state Senate seat, becoming the fifth lawmaker of color in the Massachusetts Senate.
- MassachusettsGov. Maura Healey affirmed that the World Cup matches will go ahead in June and signaled a likely solution to secure the outstanding security funding for Foxborough, keeping the event on track.
- MassachusettsGov. Maura Healey defended Massachusetts coffee lovers by publicly pushing back at RFK’s threat to cancel Dunkin’, a small but symbolic win for Bay Staters.
- MassachusettsDemocracyState Rep. Vanna Howard won the 1st Middlesex District state Senate race in unofficial results, delivering a progressive victory for Massachusetts representation.
- MassachusettsSpringfield city council moved to keep the Hoophall Classic tournaments in town and accelerate work on a sports complex to add courts and help the Hall of Fame grow its events.
- DemocracyMassachusettsBoston being named a finalist to host the 2028 Democratic National Convention is a win for Democrats and progressives, bringing political momentum, national attention, and potential economic benefits to Massachusetts.
- DemocracyMassachusettsBoston was named one of five finalists to host the 2028 Democratic National Convention, a potential progressive win that would bring the city its first DNC since 2004.
- ImmigrationEducationMassachusettsNew YorkMassachusetts leaders Healey and Campbell issued guidance reminding colleges that ICE needs a judicial warrant to enter dorms — a protective win for student privacy and immigrant rights after the reported Columbia incident. [2]
- DemocracyMassachusettsThe piece urges that Auditor DiZoglio’s right to hire her own attorney to pursue an audit be affirmed, strengthening independent oversight and accountability.
- ClimateEnvironmentEconomic JusticeMassachusettsThe Massachusetts House passed an energy affordability bill to rein in spiraling utility costs and boost momentum for nuclear energy's return, a win for consumers and low‑carbon climate goals.
- ImmigrationHousingLaborEducationEconomic JusticeDemocracyMassachusettsBoston residents used $2.2 million in participatory funding to back immigrants’ legal defense, expand access to healthy food, and support housing stability, workforce training, and youth financial literacy programs.
- MassachusettsBoston Fleet players who represented the U.S. women's Olympic hockey team are celebrating a gold-medal victory and reaffirming their pride as Americans while brushing off President Trump's joke.
- Economic JusticeMassachusettsSix Massachusetts Gateway Cities — Malden, Holyoke, Fitchburg, Chelsea, Peabody, and Lowell — will each get a three-year economic development fellow to provide on-the-ground leadership to revitalize downtowns and support small businesses, real estate projects, and arts and culture.
- HealthcareReproductive RightsCriminal Justice ReformMassachusettsNew YorkProPublica investigations prompted concrete reforms this month — from Colorado moving to tighten marijuana testing and senators introducing the Clear Labels Act for prescription transparency, to Massachusetts’ governor proposing to remove the rape statute of limitations when DNA exists, New York lawmakers proposing major funding to fix the guardianship system, and Texas’ medical board issuing training so doctors can legally provide life‑saving abortion care — delivering tangible protections for public health, survivors and vulnerable people.
- ImmigrationMassachusettsBoston’s sanctuary policy held firm as the Boston Police Department ignored all ICE detainer requests last year and the City Council rejected an effort to compel the Wu administration to disclose information, marking a win for immigrant protections.
- EducationMassachusettsEconomic JusticeLaborMassachusetts is offering residents free AI career certificate courses through Google's Grow With Google program, expanding affordable education and workforce opportunities.
- EducationEconomic JusticeMassachusettsGov. Maura Healey announced a partnership with Google to provide free AI training classes to all Massachusetts residents, expanding equitable access to digital skills and workforce opportunities.
- DemocracyMassachusettsEconomic JusticeBoston residents won a participatory budgeting victory as Mayor Michelle Wu announced community-chosen proposals to spend $2.2 million of public funds.
- MassachusettsEconomic JusticeClimateEnvironmentBoston is extending its fare-free bus pilot through June after three routes saw a 35% ridership increase—more than double the MBTA average—demonstrating a successful boost in equitable, affordable transit access.
- ClimateEnvironmentMassachusettsA new $6.6 million funding round brings the program’s total to over $123 million awarded to 568 projects, expanding sidewalks and bike lanes across the Commonwealth.
- MassachusettsDemocracyProgressive leaders gained momentum in Massachusetts as Gov. Maura Healey leads GOP challengers by double digits and Sen. Ed Markey is up in a new poll heading into the primary.
- MassachusettsNew York and Vermont are sending aid to Massachusetts to help with snow removal and support recovery after a blizzard while Gov. Maura Healey's emergency declaration remains in effect for most counties.
- ClimateEnvironmentMassachusettsEconomic JusticeThe Massachusetts House is set to vote on a Democratic plan to modernize the state's energy grid and deliver cost-saving policy fixes that inject predictability into energy bills.
- EducationMassachusettsChicopee is launching Massachusetts’ first citywide school bus stop‑arm camera program — fully funded by fines and costing taxpayers nothing — to improve student safety and enforcement.
- HousingMassachusettsGovernor Healey's selection of former HUD official and MassINC chief operating officer Juana Matias to replace outgoing Housing Secretary Ed Augustus is a progressive win, bringing experienced, community-focused leadership to Massachusetts' housing agenda.
- ImmigrationEducationMassachusettsA federal judge ordered the Trump Administration to bring back a Babson College student who was mistakenly deported to Honduras, securing the student's return to the United States.
- MassachusettsGov. Maura Healey lifted the travel ban for southeastern Massachusetts counties, signaling improving conditions and progress in storm cleanup and recovery.
- ClimateEnvironmentEducationMassachusettsHarvard is launching a new 'Energy, Climate, and Environment' major led by a divestment activist, marking a win for climate advocacy and expanding environmental education.
- MassachusettsMassachusetts Gov. Maura Healey made state government more efficient and innovative by rolling out ChatGPT across the 40,000‑person executive branch, making Massachusetts the first state to deploy the AI across its executive workforce.