The Governor’s Council serves a vital democratic function as the only opportunity for Massachusetts citizens to vet judicial candidates before they receive permanent (until age 70) appointments.  Unfortunately, its reputation has been marred in recent years by questioning that can sometimes be uncivil and irrelevant to the role of judge, making the process a gauntlet for those applying to serve the public. 

Retiring Governor's Councillor Thomas Merrigan said about this situation:

   I know for a fact that what can go on [at the Council] serves as a deterrent to a robust applicant pool.  People are daunted by what they see, where things are turned inside out to make someone look stupid or foolish or corrupt in a way that sometimes would cause people to think long and hard about whether they want to step into that experience.

Fortunately, we still have excellent judges in the Commonwealth, but how long will this continue?  Citizens who have been nominated to become judges should be treated with the same decorum, respect and civility we expect them to treat those who come before their courts, while being asked tough, relevant questions. I am running to help bring respect, civility and serious consideration to the review process for judicial candidates.

I called Marilyn Devaney Friday morning to concede and to wish her well over the next two years.

Not the call I had hoped to make when we started this adventure more than six months ago.

But it's been a great six months and I am as happy with the results as possible without reaching the ultimate goal.

I met so many new people throughout the district.  So many of you contributed, volunteered, sent e-mails, hosted coffees, gave valuable advice.  The support was gratifying and overwhelming.

Thank you, thank you, thank you!

While this race is over, it's time to turn to the general election and get Barack Obama, Elizabeth Warren, Joe Kennedy and Mike Barrett over the finish line.
I look forward to seeing you on the campaign trail.

Harry