Massachusetts Lawmakers Resist Audit After Voter Mandate

A rally titled “No Kings” is set for Boston on Saturday, aimed at protesting the actions of the Trump Administration. However, those concerned about political accountability may wish to direct their attention to the Massachusetts State House, where the Legislature is pushing back against a voter-approved audit. Last year, an impressive 72% of voters supported a ballot measure granting the state auditor the authority to scrutinize the Legislature’s accounts and operations, yet lawmakers have resisted compliance.

The ballot measure, known as Question 1, was intended to enhance transparency within the state government. Despite the clear mandate from voters, the Legislature has primarily responded with legal objections. When State Auditor Diana DiZoglio attempted to initiate the audit immediately following the election, legislative counsel argued that her actions were premature. They contended that the law did not take effect until 30 days after the election certification, leading to a convoluted legal back-and-forth.

In the months that followed, it became apparent that the House and Senate leadership were determined to prevent DiZoglio from examining their activities. They voiced concerns regarding the independence of the legislative branch from executive oversight. The auditor persisted, seeking access to the inner workings of the State House while legislative leaders endeavored to maintain their privacy.

In December 2022, DiZoglio requested that Attorney General Andrea Campbell authorize a lawsuit aimed at compelling the Legislature to comply with the audit request. In a letter obtained by the Herald, DiZoglio expressed a desire to collaborate with Campbell’s office to challenge the prevailing secrecy within the Legislature and to promote transparency. She remarked on the need to disrupt the “shameful status quo” that has characterized the current legislative environment.

The State House has been likened to Castle Dracula—a metaphor for its aversion to transparency. A spokesperson for Campbell emphasized that the attorney general respects the will of the voters as expressed in Question 1. Yet tensions have escalated, with DiZoglio now asserting that Campbell is working alongside legislative leaders to hinder the audit process.

In a statement to the Herald, Campbell noted that for the audit to proceed, the auditor must address several outstanding questions, including ensuring that the audit adheres to constitutional guidelines. As the conflict continues, DiZoglio’s general counsel and deputy auditor, Michael Leung-Tat, confirmed that the office is actively pursuing legal action against the Legislature.

As the one-year mark approaches since Massachusetts voters called for increased transparency, the situation raises critical issues about governance and accountability. The outcome of this ongoing struggle could have significant implications for the relationship between voters and their elected representatives.

The upcoming “No Kings” protest will take place just a short distance from the State House, serving as a reminder of the public’s demand for openness and accountability in government. The juxtaposition of the protest with the legislative resistance to the audit underscores the urgent need for transparency in the political process. Voters expressed a clear desire for change, and their expectations should not be dismissed.