Healey and Driscoll Fled Massachusetts Again Without Telling Us

If this were a game show, we might call it Where in the World Is Maura Healey? The Governor of Massachusetts seems to disappear without warning, and many times doesn't feel as though she owes an explanation to voters for her absence.

When the governor bolts the state, the lieutenant governor spins in the big chair until the boss is back in town. This is true for business trips or leisurely jaunts for a little rest and relaxation.

It has been the policy of most governors to inform the masses of their travel plans, including where they are going and when they expect to return. Not only is it a common courtesy, but it is also the right thing to do.

Healey And Driscoll Fled Massachusetts Without Telling Us Again

Secretary of the Commonwealth in Charge Again

Sometimes Healey, who claims to be the most "transparent" governor, leaves Massachusetts under her usual cloak of secrecy, and Lt. Gov. Kim Driscoll disappears at the same time. When that happens, Secretary of State Bill Galvin is in charge of the store.

On Thursday, August 28, State House News Service reported that, "Galvin's office said at about 1:45 p.m. that Galvin has been informed that he is now serving as Acting Governor and expects to serve in that role until Friday afternoon (August 29)."

Healey's office did not explain why the two had left the state or where they went.

Get our free mobile app

Healey and Driscoll's History of Disappearing

Healey and Driscoll disappeared on a trip to France after signing the Massachusetts state budget into law in July without prior notification. Healey's Republican opponents, Brian Shortsleeve and Mike Keneally, accused the governor of a lack of accountability to the voters, as did the Massachusetts Fiscal Alliance.

Healey's office announced in November 2023 that it would no longer disclose the governor's out-of-state travel plans in advance, citing security concerns. This policy drew fire from the Massachusetts GOP.