Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey is set to give her second State of the Commonwealth address Thursday.
The Democratic governor is likely to lay out her priorities for the year ahead as well as make her case that she’s making Massachusetts a better place to live.
“This year, we’re going to keep bringing down costs, cutting through the red tape and making Massachusetts the #1 state to live, work and learn,” Healey said in an Instagram post about the speech.
Gov. Maura Healey makes her way through Union Station after announcing a transportation initiative in Worcester.
What is the State of the Commonwealth?
The State of the Commonwealth address is an annual or regular report to the state legislature on the condition of the state.
It can be thought of as the state version of the President’s annual State of the Union: it’s a time for the governor of a state to outline their priorities as well as celebrate their accomplishments.
All 50 state constitutions mandate that the governor give this sort of annual address. In many states, it is called the ‘State of the State.’
What will Healey talk about?
In Healey’s first State of the Commonwealth last year, Healey said that the issues of housing, education, and transportation would be at the top of her agenda.
This year, she’s likely to talk about some of these issues again: on Tuesday, she released an $8 billion transportation investment plan.
More: Faster track for state mass transportation: Healey touts $8 billion initiative in city
As an outspoken Trump critic and litigator as Massachusetts attorney general, Healey may also talk about how she plans to handle President-elect Donald Trump in his second term. After his election, Healey said in an interview with MSNBC that she would “absolutely not” help the Trump administration with “mass deportations.” But she has also pledged to represent all residents of the state, including those who voted for Trump.
She’s also expected to highlight achievements from the past year. Some listed on the state’s website include transportation wins like eliminating slow zones from the subway, and tax cuts that went into effect in 2024.
When is the 2025 State of the Commonwealth Address?
Healey’s address will take place on Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025 at 7 p.m.
How can I watch the State of the Commonwealth?
Healey will be speaking to members of the legislature at the House Chambers in the Massachusetts State House. You can watch it virtually here.
This article originally appeared on Telegram & Gazette: MA State of the Commonwealth: What to expect, how to watch