Governor Maura Healey’s visit to New Bedford captured in video

Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey has faced criticism for her lack of presence in the SouthCoast region, which was highlighted during New Bedford Mayor Jon Mitchell’s recent State of the City address. Mitchell pointed out the challenges New Bedford faces due to the reduction in state aid over the years. He emphasized that the current level of state aid is similar to that of 2008, despite the significant rise in prices over the years, putting a strain on the city’s ability to meet its financial responsibilities.

Due to these challenges, Mitchell noted that the burden has disproportionately fallen on property taxpayers in New Bedford. While Governor Healey’s visits to the SouthCoast have been infrequent, speculation suggests that she may increase her presence in the region as the November elections approach. This is especially relevant considering that Ward 3 City Councilor Shawn Oliver is a running mate of one of Healey’s potential Republican challengers, Brian Shortsleeve.

In response to the criticism and to demonstrate her engagement with the New Bedford community, Governor Healey recently shared a video on social media documenting her visit to the Titleist Foot Joy Plant 3 in the city. Titled “Getting the Tee at Titleist,” the video showcased Governor Healey donning a white cleanroom suit over her official blue governor’s jacket as she assisted in the quality control process of separating good golf balls from rejects. The post was captioned “Team Massachusetts: always on par with the best.”

The release of this video has sparked discussions about whether Governor Healey is gearing up to show more support for the SouthCoast region. While her presence in the area has been limited, this recent visit indicates a potential shift in engagement strategies as the political landscape evolves. As the upcoming elections draw near, Healey’s efforts to connect with local communities, like New Bedford, may be crucial in garnering support.

Overall, Governor Healey’s visit to the Titleist Foot Joy Plant 3 serves as a gesture to address the criticisms of her lack of engagement in the SouthCoast. By actively participating in local events and showcasing her involvement in the community, Healey aims to bridge the gap between her office and the residents of New Bedford. This renewed focus on engagement could potentially enhance her standing within the region and help build stronger connections with voters as the election season progresses.