Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey is facing renewed scrutiny for a series of contradictory statements made over the years, particularly regarding her stance on natural gas pipelines and other pressing issues. This compilation of her notable remarks highlights the inconsistencies that have characterized her public discourse.
In recent discussions, Healey’s comments on natural gas pipelines have attracted attention. In a 2022 interview on National Public Radio, she stated, “Remember, I stopped two gas pipelines from coming into this state…. I also went to the Supreme Judicial Court to make sure that obsolete, soon-to-be-obsolete pipeline infrastructure wasn’t gonna be built on the backs of our ratepayers.” Contrasting this, during a 2025 interview, she stated, “First of all, I didn’t do that,” leaving many to question which version reflects her true position.
The Governor’s handling of sensitive issues has also been controversial. In 2024, she responded to a heinous crime involving a disabled underage girl by saying, “It is unfortunate that from time to time, things will happen.” Her approach to safety in state shelters has faced criticism as well. Healey previously asserted that her administration would conduct criminal background checks on all shelter residents, but later acknowledged that these checks had not been implemented at all sites. “I was recently informed by my team that did not happen at all sites and that is absolutely unacceptable,” she admitted.
Responses to Social Issues and Policies
Healey’s responses to social issues have often sparked debate. In April 2016, during a State House hearing regarding shared restrooms, she advised women who complained about the situation to “Hold it!” This remark drew criticism as it appeared dismissive of the concerns raised.
While addressing nationwide unrest during the Black Lives Matter protests in June 2020, she told the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce, “Yes, America is burning, but that’s how forests grow.” This analogy raised eyebrows and highlighted her controversial handling of the protests.
In terms of appointments, Healey’s selection of Monica Tibbets-Nutt as the state’s Secretary of Transportation in November 2023 was met with praise, as she called Tibbets-Nutt “a proven leader who has done important work at MASS DOT.” However, her subsequent handling of the Plazagate scandal involving Tibbets-Nutt in 2025, which resulted in a $900 million controversy, led to a brief press release regarding Tibbets-Nutt’s decision to resign.
Political Endorsements and Reactions
Healey’s political endorsements have also drawn scrutiny. In September 2021, she backed Rachael Rollins for the role of U.S. Attorney, asserting that Rollins “brings a valuable perspective and commitment to reforming a criminal justice system.” Following Rollins’ resignation in May 2023 due to a series of scandals, Healey refrained from commenting on the situation.
In another notable instance, Healey endorsed corrupt Suffolk County Sheriff Steve Tompkins in 2022, labeling him “a strong partner in the push for a more equitable criminal justice system.” After Tompkins was indicted on federal corruption charges in 2025, Healey declined to call for his resignation, stating, “I need to know more about this. I need to get more information.”
Furthermore, her shifting stance on immigration policies has raised questions about her leadership. During an interview in November 2024, she firmly opposed any efforts by former President Donald Trump to reduce the population of undocumented immigrants in Massachusetts. Yet, in May 2025, she acknowledged, “Some of what Trump has done makes a lot of sense,” reflecting a notable change in her rhetoric.
Healey also faced backlash for her comments regarding renewable energy. Describing Massachusetts as “the Saudi Arabia of wind right off our shores,” she advocated for wind energy development. However, after an incident in July 2024 where a wind turbine blade fell into Nantucket Sound, causing pollution, she stated, “Obviously something went wrong. There was a problem. We need to understand that.”
The Governor’s record reveals a pattern of controversial statements and actions, leading many to question her consistency and credibility. As Healey continues her tenure, observers will undoubtedly keep a close eye on her evolving positions and the implications for her leadership in Massachusetts.
