Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey takes a unique stance in response to the formation of a Democratic governors’ coalition against Trump policies, refusing to join the gang.
That’s at least one Democratic governor that respects the decision made by the majority of American voters.
At a Glance
- Gov. Healey declines to join the “Governors Safeguarding Democracy” initiative
- Healey emphasizes using existing state structures to protect Massachusetts residents
- The governor aims to represent all constituents, including Trump supporters
- Democratic governors from other states form a coalition to oppose Trump’s policies
- Healey’s approach contrasts with her history of legal challenges against Trump
Healey’s Unique Approach
Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey, a Democrat, has chosen not to join a newly formed coalition of Democratic governors aimed at resisting policies of President-elect Donald Trump’s incoming administration.
This decision marks a departure from the collective effort led by Governors JB Pritzker of Illinois and Jared Polis of Colorado, who have launched the “Governors Safeguarding Democracy” initiative.
Healey’s office confirmed her non-participation in the coalition, emphasizing a different approach to governance. The governor’s strategy focuses on utilizing existing state structures, particularly the attorney general’s office, to protect the rights and freedoms of Massachusetts residents.
In contrast to the coalition’s targeted resistance, Healey has expressed a commitment to inclusive leadership that serves all constituents, including those who supported Trump. This approach aligns with her post-election statement, where she emphasized unity and collective progress.
“The Bay State is a place, and will be a place, where we care about each other, and we look after one another,” the Democratic governor said. “So whoever you are, whoever you voted for, know that we’re going to continue to work together and move forward.”
Healey’s stance is particularly notable given her history as attorney general, during which she filed nearly 100 lawsuits against the Trump administration. This shift in approach suggests a strategic pivot from direct confrontation to a more inclusive governance model.
The Coalition’s Efforts
While Healey opts out, other Democratic governors are mobilizing against potential Trump policies. The “Governors Safeguarding Democracy” initiative aims to utilize state-level influence to uphold democratic norms across the country. The coalition is collaborating with the Governors Action Alliance, which includes former Massachusetts governors Deval Patrick and William Weld on its advisory board.
The initiative is expected to receive philanthropic donations, with Governor Pritzker, a billionaire heir to the Hyatt hotel fortune, likely to play a significant role in its funding. The coalition’s formation reflects growing concerns among Democratic leaders about the potential impact of Trump’s policies on issues such as immigration, LGBTQ+ rights, reproductive care, and environmental protections.
The Democrats who accept the will of the people might well be the only politicians to survive a reckoning come next election…
