The MBTA
The MBTA is in crisis. This year, we saw both a fare increase and a reduction in service as a result of the agency’s fiscal problems. By common agreement, either the T’s debt obligations will have to be reduced – perhaps by having the state or another agency assume some of them – or its funding will have to increase. Please describe your favored approach to putting this vital transportation agency back on stable footing. If you favor more funding, please specify where it would come from, and what taxes or fees you would support for that purpose.
Independent
Independent
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Democrat
The MBTA is too important to fail. There should be both a fare increase and a re-evaluation of routes to realize efficiencies.
The MBTA is not the only transit authority in the state that faced route reductions and fare increases. The Pioneer Valley Transit Authority faced many of the same problems without a bailout.
I think the real discussion shouldn't put one agency's needs above another, but should look at transportation infrastructure improvements as a whole.
Healthcare
Massachusetts’s new healthcare cost containment law limits the growth of healthcare spending to the growth in the state’s economy and shifts from fee-for-service care to global payment models. Do you believe these measures will protect healthcare choices while preventing rapid increases in costs?
Independent
Independent
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Democrat
Yes, I do.
All of the efforts by the Legislature this session relating to health care were centered on protecting an industry sector that is our No. 1 employer, creating efficiencies, and protecting innovation.
This legislation works toward improving access, quality, and delivery of care.
Education
Many parents are looking for educational options for their children. It’s very hard to get expanded day programs in districts like Boston because the teachers’ union believes its members should be paid for the extra time they work. Charter schools offer longer days and longer school years at the same per-pupil cost, and there are more than 35,000 children on waiting lists statewide. Do you support raising the cap on charter schools? If yes, under what conditions?
Independent
Independent
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Democrat
I realize how effective charter schools can be and I applaud them for all the great work they do.
I feel it is important to realize the role that public education plays in the Commonwealth, and I do not think it is fair that a child needs to win a lottery to be able to get a good quality education.
Both systems have to be available.
Project Labor Agreements
The Patrick administration has imposed so-called Project Labor Agreements on three large construction projects that require that anyone working on them must be members of a labor union and firms must abide by union work rules. Non-union shops say those requirements effectively exclude them from bidding. Several studies show that projects done under PLAs or with only a small number of bidders cost more than projects that have more bidders. Unions, however, say the PLAs insure higher-quality work and offer a guarantee against strikes or other labor strife. Do you favor or oppose PLAs? Why?
Independent
Independent
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Democrat
Yes, I do support PLAs.
I don't believe that any organization has been excluded from bidding on any project.
I also believe in supporting the hard-working families that have made this Commonwealth what it is today.
Employee Pensions
Do you think further changes to the state employee pension system are necessary?
Independent
Independent
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Democrat
I would like to see how the latest reforms to the pension system play out before any additional changes are addressed.
Legislative leadership
Cite any votes (if an incumbent) or positions (if a challenger or newcomer) you have taken that disagree with the stance taken by your party’s legislative leadership.
Independent
Independent
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Democrat
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