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August 21, 2025 44 mins

 

 

In this week’s episode, Jennifer welcomes Brian Shortsleeve, a distinguished Marine Corps veteran, successful businessman, government reformer, and proud father of three boys. Brian’s career spans service in Bosnia and the Persian Gulf, a leading role in the finance sector, and a notable tenure as the General Manager and CEO of the Massachusetts Bay Transit Authority (MBTA). He also served under Governor Charlie Baker, where he earned a reputation for instituting fiscal discipline within Massachusetts state government. Brian is currently running for Governor of Massachusetts, committed to revitalizing economic growth and restoring common-sense leadership.

Jennifer and Brian dive into the critical challenges facing Massachusetts under current one-party Democratic rule, highlighting the rapid escalation in state taxes, fees, and regulation. Brian shares controversial insights on Governor Maura Healey’s policies, including her handling of the state's $62 billion budget, the ever-increasing utility bills, burdensome business climate, and spending on migrant shelters. The conversation exposes the exodus of young people and businesses from Massachusetts, the shrinking private sector job market, and the lack of government accountability. Brian details his bold plans to cut taxes, streamline government spending, audit wasteful state programs, and restore fiscal health—all while emphasizing the importance of keeping families and economic opportunity in the state. This episode is a must-listen for those interested in the future trajectory of Massachusetts policy and politics.


“Healey’s spending is completely out of control. In the last three weeks, she announced that she’s still spending over $3 million a day on the migrant shelter program.”
~ Brian Shortsleeve

This week on Political Contessa:

  • Massachusetts’ record $62 billion budget under Governor Healey
  • The impact of rising taxes, fees, and utility costs on working families and seniors
  • The migration of young people and businesses from Massachusetts to states with better economic climates
  • How government waste and lack of auditing has led to outrageous contract spending
  • The decline in private sector job growth and lost opportunity for middle class families
  • Prioritization of spending on migrant shelters over local needs such as police, education, and public defenders Brian Shortsleeve’s systematic approach to government reform and fiscal discipline
  • The urgent need for checks and balances and balanced leadership in Massachusetts

Connect with Brian Shortsleeve:

Brian Shortsleeve for Governor

 

 

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