Who Governs the Governor’s Council?
Introducing The Governor’s Council.
The Massachusetts Governor's Council is one of the Commonwealth’s most enduring and least understood government bodies. Created in the colonial era and still active today, the Council is made up of eight elected members, each representing a district, and is chaired by the Lieutenant Governor. It is responsible for approving critical executive decisions, most notably the nomination of judges to lifetime appointments in the state court system.
But its authority does not end there.
Know their role.
Understand their impact.
Every time a new judge is appointed, or someone applies for a pardon or commutation, the Governor’s Council plays a decisive role. These are decisions that directly affect courtrooms, communities, and the legal system. From setting long-term legal precedents to determining whether someone deserves a second chance, their influence is significant.
And yet, most residents have never heard of the Council, let alone know who represents them. Learning how it works and who’s on it is one of the most straightforward and effective ways to stay engaged as a voter and as a citizen.
-
They approve or reject the Governor’s nominations for judges in the state court system at all levels, from district court to the Supreme Judicial Court.
-
The Council must approve all gubernatorial pardons and commutations. No one gets a pardon in Massachusetts without their vote.
-
The Council confirms appointments to some powerful state boards, like the Appellate Tax Board or Industrial Accident Board.
-
They formally approve the weekly warrants allowing the state Treasurer to release funds. It’s mostly ceremonial, but technically a check on the executive branch’s spending.
How you can participate.
Each Councilor is elected by voters in their district. That means your voice matters. Whether it’s learning more about your representative, showing up to a hearing, or staying current on what’s being decided—you don’t need to be an expert to get involved.
Stay connected. Stay engaged.
Council hearings are open to the public, and we’re here to help you keep track. Browse upcoming events, read summaries of past meetings, and follow how Councilors vote.
So, who governs the governor’s council?
We all do, and that is why we formed this organization. We are a volunteer-led civic group working to make the Governor’s Council easier to follow, and harder to ignore. This site is here to simplify the process, explain what’s happening, and encourage participation. Democracy works better when more people are paying attention.
Contact
Please contact us with any questions or to join our mailing list.
Email
wggc.mass@gmail.com