STATEHOUSE ROUNDUP: A strained partnership
Matt Murphy
Recap and analysis of the week in state government
For years, with both Democrats and Republicans in the corner office, the leadership of the Legislature has basically been able to do what it wants.
Speakers and Senate presidents – always Democrats – have controlled enough votes to set the agenda, override vetoes and ignore or compromise with the governor as they see fit. The difference between then and now? They didn't always talk about it.
Increasingly, however, House and Senate lawmakers are not only frustrated with Gov. Charlie Baker over the things they can't control, but they're willing to say it publicly. Lawmakers have been clashing with Baker and his administration on everything from the distribution of vaccines to climate legislation and the return to in-person learning for thousands of young students (though Baker has largely gotten his way on schools).