A simmering dispute between Republican Gov. Charlie Baker and the Democratic-controlled Legislature over Massachusetts' state finances boiled over last week when Baker announced nearly $100 million in unilateral spending cuts. Lawmakers and advocates complained the governor was wielding the budget ax prematurely and without regard to vulnerable citizens who rely on programs that were cut.

Baker replied that Democrats were overstating the severity of the reductions to a state budget totaling nearly $40 billion and that lawmakers helped create the situation by overriding his earlier spending vetoes.

While the first two years of Baker's term have been notable for the lack of finger-pointing between the administration and Legislature, the feud suggests that may not continue in the next legislative session and as Baker gears up for a likely re-election bid.  (Associated Press)

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