On an Elected School Committee
March 13, 2009

In my announcement video, I said that we need to talk about whether an appointed school committee is best for our children. The Globe and the Herald have since written editorials making a case against an elected school committee. And while they are publishing a letter from me clarifying my position, I want to set the record straight here, as well.

Let’s be perfectly clear – I never said we should return to an elected committee. But I am glad we are finally talking about it.

My concern is that mayoral appointees cannot challenge the system enough, because they are part of the system. And when it comes to the Boston Public Schools, the system needs to change. Continue Reading…

Competitive Elections
March 12, 2009

Tonight, I will participate on a panel sponsored by CommonWealth Magazine about the lack of competitive elections in Massachusetts. The event will look at our low rate of political competition – 17 percent in the legislature – and what effect it has on our government. Other panelists will include longtime Republican leader Charles Baker and newly elected State Senator Sonia Chang-Diaz.

Continue Reading…