Massachusetts Legislature Faces Backlash Over Audit Resistance

A rally titled “No Kings” is scheduled for this Saturday in Boston, where demonstrators plan to protest the Trump Administration. However, many argue that the focus should shift to the Massachusetts State House, where the legislature is resisting a voter-approved audit that received overwhelming support. Last year, approximately 72% of voters approved a ballot measure granting the state auditor the authority to investigate the legislature’s accounts and activities. Since then, the legislature has consistently rebuffed these efforts.

When State Auditor Diana DiZoglio attempted to initiate the audit shortly after the election, legislative leaders claimed her actions were premature. According to legal counsel for the Massachusetts House and Senate, the law allowing the audit did not take effect until 30 days after the election results were certified. Senate Counsel James DiTullio and House Counsel James Kennedy stated that this timeline meant DiZoglio’s attempt was “untimely.”

The situation has not improved in the months since. As reported by the Herald, legislative leadership has made it clear they intend to block DiZoglio’s investigation, citing a desire to maintain the legislative branch’s independence from the executive branch. DiZoglio, undeterred, has sought legal assistance to challenge this resistance and push for transparency.

In December 2022, she appealed to Attorney General Andrea Campbell for support in filing a lawsuit aimed at compelling the House and Senate to comply with the audit. DiZoglio expressed her desire to “disrupt the shameful status quo” and bring transparency to a legislature she described as “woefully opaque.”

Despite the pushback, Campbell’s office has reiterated their respect for the will of the voters regarding the audit. In a statement, a spokesperson indicated that for the audit to proceed, the auditor must address certain unanswered questions, including constitutional concerns related to the audit’s scope.

In response, DiZoglio has asserted that the attorney general is collaborating with legislative leaders to hinder the audit’s progress. Michael Leung-Tat, DiZoglio’s general counsel and deputy auditor, confirmed that they are actively pursuing legal action against the legislature.

As the one-year mark approaches since Massachusetts voters decisively called for transparency, advocates for the audit emphasize that the legislative body’s compliance is not merely a political maneuver but a necessary step in upholding democratic principles. The continued resistance raises significant questions about accountability within the state government.

As the “No Kings” protest takes place just a short distance away on the Boston Common, the juxtaposition highlights a growing frustration among constituents who seek to hold their elected officials accountable. The public’s demand for transparency remains a central issue as the legislature continues to grapple with the implications of the recent ballot measure.

This scenario illustrates a broader challenge faced by voters seeking to enforce their will against entrenched political structures. The outcome of this situation may profoundly impact public trust in governance in Massachusetts and beyond.