MA Governor's Council Race: What It Is And What It Means

BOSTON, MA — Election day is around the corner and while all eyes have been glued to the Presidential race, local races like the Governor's Council hold plenty of influence closer to home in the Commonwealth.

The races in this year's Governor's Council election are uncontested, but it still helps to know what the position entails. The council is made up of eight people from eight districts around Massachusetts and the Lieutenant Governor. The group advises the governor on issues ranging from gubernatorial appointments to political pardons.

The council meets every week and advises the governor on warrants for the state treasury possible pardons or commutations and appointments for things like judges, clerk-magistrates, public administrators, members of boards.

Some boards that the council offers advice on include the Parole Board, Appellate Tax Board, Industrial Accident Board and Industrial Accident Reviewing Board, notaries, and justices of the peace.

During the Democratic Primary Election, the Governor's Council District 6 race was the only contested race. Incumbent Terrence Kennedy secured his seat against challenger Helina Fontes.

Here are the candidates for the Nov. 3 Election, the races are uncontested:

District 1: Joseph Ferreira

District 2: Robert Jubinville

District 3: Marilyn Petitto Devaney

District 4: Christopher Iannella

District 5: Eileen Duff

District 6: Terrence Kennedy

District 7: Paul DePalo

District 8: Mary Hurley

Take a peak at a sample ballot so you can hit the polls prepared and get familiar with the two statewide ballot questions as well.