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I believe that the fundamental role of our government is to provide an environment in which every individual has an opportunity to succeed and reach his or her full potential. Ultimately, we grow and prosper as a Commonwealth not through government, but rather as a result of the achievements of the great people of this state. Government should not be an obstacle to pursuing success and happiness, by over burdening its people and its businesses. Instead, it is the duty of our government to serve the people by providing opportunity so our citizens and businesses can succeed. It is paramount that this is created in a fiscally conservative manner, because it is our tax dollars that the government is spending. I believe taxpayers should come before taxes.
While this is a limited collection of core values, they are important personal beliefs and cornerstones of my candidacy. As the campaign progresses and I study more issues in-depth, I will continue to keep you informed. Please keep a lookout for additional updates in the coming months!
Gaming
As governor I will not advocate for any particular plan for gaming in Massachusetts but I will sign gaming legislation if it provides for proper regulation, jobs with benefits, and generates a new income stream that does not rely on government giveaways. I proposed a destination style casino plan and a plan to legalize slots in specific locations, with the proceeds being partially committed to local aid.
Education
Job growth is the cornerstone of why I am running. A 25% high school drop out rate does not lend itself to healthy job growth. I am committed to working with schools to significantly increase the graduation rate. This is a not a problem that can be solved by throwing more money at it. Our economic program will provide jobs for those who graduate. We need to set high standards for our students, hold them accountable for meeting those standards and let them know we believe they can be the highly trained workers our businesses need for the 21st century.
Taxes
I am opposed to raising taxes – I believe we have enough revenue to run the Commonwealth. What the Commonwealth needs is to run government efficiently. Government, like all of us, must live within its means.
Taxpayer Subsidized In-State Tuition
I am in support of taxpayer subsidized In-state tuition for legal residents only.
Pension Reform
As state treasurer I filed legislation to limit compensation used to calculate pension benefits to salary only to ensure no artificial inflation of pension benefits. As State Treasurer I have consistently fought against pension abuses such as those perpetrated by former UMass and Senate President William Bulger. I’ve aggressively sought to forfeit pensions for any member convicted of crimes related to their jobs, like Jack Bulger. I am the first treasurer to implement a regular benefit verification program that has saved the Commonwealth $400,000.
Healthcare Reform
One of the hallmarks of a successful and compassionate society is its ability to provide care for its citizens. Our residents deserve accessible, affordable health care that will not jeopardize the Commonwealth’s fiscal health. As State Treasurer, I took the School Building Authority, a previously mismanaged program that provided funds with little accountability or incentive for saving, and developed a rigorous program that made new school building accessible and affordable for communities. As Governor, I will work with the legislature to similarly overhaul the healthcare system to maximize efficiency and reduce costs.
Welfare
Like healthcare, it is our society’s responsibility to provide a temporary safety net for those in need. However, recent reports at the federal level have raised serious questions about fraud. Any and all fraud must be eliminated in order to give the taxpayers the confidence that their tax dollars are not being abused or wasted. As governor I will order a top to bottom review of our welfare system and work to ensure businesses have jobs for those able to work.
Same Sex Marriage
I have been and will continue to be a supporter of same sex marriage.
I believe that civil marriage is a fundamental right, and that your constitutional rights do not begin or end based on your sexual orientation.
Abortion
I believe in and support a women’s right to choose. I also believe that abortion should be safe, legal, and rare.
Public Safety
Public Safety is and always will be a top priority for my administration. I will never waiver in my commitment to protect the well-being of Massachusetts residents and that includes committing to adequate police and fire staffing levels including training and education within the communities.
Death Penalty
Given the right set of circumstances, if the legislature passes a death penalty bill, – as Governor I would sign it.
Gun Control
I support the second amendment and the rights of individuals to bear arms. I also support reasonable restrictions, such as background checks and child safety locks.
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