The Reality of Incumbent Advantage

The lack of competition in Massachusetts legislative races is alarming. In the 2024 election cycle, 130 incumbents are running unopposed. This lack of challengers means that many voters have no real choice in their representation, undermining the very essence of democracy. Without competition, there is little incentive for incumbents to be responsive to their constituents or to innovate in their policy approaches.

This lack of competition is not a coincidence but a direct result of calculated policies and practices designed to protect those already in power. From preferential ballot ordering to built-in fundraising advantages, the system is rigged to ensure that incumbents remain in office, prioritizing power over people. Transparency measures at the state legislature, be it open meeting laws or public records laws, are actively suppressed by our elected leaders; a betrayal of our trust unlike any other.

Massachusetts is unique in that it requires incumbents’ names to be listed first on the ballot. This seemingly minor detail can have a significant impact on election outcomes, as studies have shown that candidates listed first often receive more votes simply due to their position on the ballot. This practice gives incumbents an unfair advantage over challengers, who must work harder to gain visibility and recognition.

The most significant cause of incumbent advantage? The state legislature itself. The deliberate suppression of transparency and accountability in the Massachusetts state legislature directly bolsters incumbent advantage. When transparency is lacking, incumbents can operate with minimal public scrutiny. This means that their actions, decisions, and potential missteps are less likely to be exposed to the public. Without accountability, there is little incentive for incumbents to act in the best interest of their constituents, as they are less likely to face consequences for poor performance or unethical behavior.

Unfortunately, it’s working. In addition to having fewer contested primaries, Massachusetts also has fewer candidates running for state legislative seats in 2024. (source: BallotPedia) Despite a population growth of 7.4% in the same time period, contested state legislative primaries in Massachusetts have dwindled to just 33 in 2024 from 61 in 2010. In the 160-member house of representatives, only 15 are facing primary challengers. Is this what a true democracy looks like? Gone are the days of an illusion of choice, replaced simply by the absence of choice altogether.

Transparency is crucial for voters to make informed decisions. When legislative activities and decisions are not transparent, voters have less information about their representatives’ performance. This lack of information can lead to voter apathy and a lower likelihood of incumbents being challenged. Voters may stick with the familiar incumbent rather than risk voting for an unknown challenger. This is by design. Many entrenched incumbents, including Natick’s very own David Linsky, have repeatedly and strategically voted in favor of blocking every transparency measure that has been brought up by their progressive counterparts. Even the most common sense measures such as making committee votes or testimony public have been dismissed. How about requiring bills to be released 48 hours before a vote so that representatives and the public have time to read legislation? That’s a ‘no’ from David Linsky. Entrenched incumbents don’t think it necessary to read the bills before voting on them. (source: scorecard.progressivemass.com)

Addressing these issues is crucial for fostering a more democratic and equitable political environment in Massachusetts. Otherwise, democracy will remain nothing more than a theatrical sham, where incumbents get to dictate their successors instead of constituents choosing their leaders.

The incumbent advantage in the Massachusetts state legislature is a significant barrier to true democratic representation. It perpetuates inequality, stifles innovation, and limits voter choice. Natick and Wayland have a rare opportunity to advocate for reforms that will create a fairer and more democratic system this September 3rd. By challenging the status quo and pushing for change, you can help build a government that truly serves all its citizens. Incumbency or Innovation, voters decide.