A vote is a voice
TUMULTUOUS TIMES make this a crucial year to vote. Below are the Globe's endorsements for candidates we believe will make an important difference in the state, and our view on the three ballot questions.
From alternative energy to easing the high cost of living, Deval Patrick offers Massachusetts thoughtful leadership in the governor's office. He is well paired with Worcester Mayor Timothy Murray, who understands local issues and the art of getting things done.
US Senator Edward Kennedy has as much political energy as ever. His work on local, national, and international issues has been a powerful asset, and in a run for re election he's primed to make more progress.
Power shifts could make Congress a very different place next year. But Massachusetts voters should stick with the home team, re electing the five representatives who face opposition. They are: William Delahunt, John Tierney, Stephen Lynch, John Olver, and Michael Capuano.
Hard working and smart, Martha Coakley has fought crime as the Middlesex district attorney. A seasoned lawyer, she is the outstanding candidate for attorney general.
In the Legislature, two bright faces should be reelected. Senator Marian Walsh of West Roxbury has attended to local needs while pushing hard on statewide issues such as expanded healthcare coverage. Representative Rachel Kaprielian of Watertown is a champion of healthcare reforms, local aid, and early education. And while we disagree with Robert O'Leary's opposition to the Cape Wind project, the Barnstable senator supports sound ocean management and has stood bravely for hypodermic needle sales to decrease the transmission of AIDS.
We also endorse two newcomers for the Massachusetts House. On issues such as human services and rising property taxes, Pam Richardson of Framingham is a worthy successor to Representative Deborah Blumer, who died suddenly last month. And John V. Fernandes of Milford brings commitment and experience as a selectman and school committee member.
We urge voters to say Yes on Question 1 to allow wine sales in grocery stores. It's a consumer-friendly matter of convenience, and we believe fears about teenaged alcohol abuse are exaggerated. Towns would control which stores could get this new license.
Vote No on Question 2, which would establish "fusion voting." Meant to spark competition, it would allow eligible small parties to run candidates or endorse major party candidates. But it threatens to clutter the ballot and push the debate to single issues.
Vote No on Question 3 to allow family child care providers to unionize. Balancing the needs of children with a union drive requires legislative attention. A bill to do this was vetoed by Governor Mitt Romney. It deserves another go-round in the State House.
