Keenan Withholds Senate President Vote, Citing Need for Reform

Senator John F. Keenan broke with the majority of the Democratic-dominated Massachusetts Senate last week, opting to vote “present” in the re-election of Senate President Karen Spilka. Keenan, who is from Quincy and represents Hanover, used his vote to highlight concerns over transparency and governance in the Senate.

"I voted present today in the roll call vote for the election of a Senate president because changes are needed," Keenan stated. "We have had significantly fewer roll calls, routinely missed deadlines, failed to adopt joint rules, waived rules, and passed bills beyond the end of formal sessions with limited opportunities for members to participate fully."

Keenan’s remarks underscored frustration with what he described as a lack of openness and collaboration within the Senate, including strained relations with the House of Representatives. "We have been less transparent and less connected with what the residents of the Commonwealth rightly demand and deserve from the Massachusetts state Senate," he added.

While Keenan expressed appreciation for Spilka’s leadership and congratulated her on her re-election, he said his vote was intended to spotlight the need for improved governance. "I trust that my vote will highlight the need for improved governance in the Senate, and I look forward to working with Senate President Spilka and my colleagues in the 194th General Court of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts," he said.

The move comes in the wake of increased scrutiny of legislative transparency. In November, 72 percent of Massachusetts voters supported a ballot question calling for an independent audit of the legislature—an initiative opposed by legislative leaders.

Earlier in 2024, Fiscal Note, a Washington D.C.-based company that makes software for policy tracking, found that the Massachusetts Legislature is the least efficient of all 50 states.

Keenan also reiterated his stance against re-electing Spilka as Senate President, stating, "I chose not to vote to elect President Spilka because the Senate needs to be more participatory, open, and transparent."

The decision by Keenan, a Democrat, to break ranks is rare in a chamber known for its party unity. His comments highlight growing discontent among constituents over how legislative business is conducted on Beacon Hill.

Spilka, who has led the Senate since 2018, was re-elected by the majority of her colleagues despite Keenan’s critique. In response to Keenan's concerns, it remains to be seen whether Senate leadership will address calls for reform in the coming legislative session.