Senator Mike Barrett Endorses Mara Dolan for Governor’s Council

BROOKLINE, MA — Senate Assistant Majority Leader Mike Barrett has endorsed Public Defender Mara Dolan for Governor’s Council, District 3, which includes his State Senate District, Third Middlesex.

The Governor's Council is made up of eight elected Councilors who vet and vote on judicial nominations, commutations and pardons, and members of the Parole Board. District 3 includes parts of Boston, all of Brookline, Newton, Waltham, and her hometown of Concord among its 32 cities and towns.

“The state judiciary is loaded with former prosecutors and is under-representative of the defense bar,” Barrett said in a statement. “Mara has the values and experience needed to get us closer to balance, which will contribute to the crucial pursuit of justice.”

According to Dolan, Barrett’s work was instrumental in passing criminal justice reform in Massachusetts, leading to a more equitable system that supports young and vulnerable residents, reduces recidivism, increases judicial discretion, and enhances public safety.

“Senator Barrett has long been a staunch advocate for criminal justice reform that protects public safety while ensuring that the rights of the accused are protected,” Dolan said in a statement. “It is essential that our judiciary have balance to ensure equal protection under the law. His endorsement means a great deal to me, and I know it will mean a great deal to voters.”

Dolan is challenging incumbent Marilyn Petito Devaney in the Democratic primary on September 6. For more information on Dolan's campaign, go to MaraDolan.com.