Sen. Ross Calling for Gruber Resignation

Article submitted by the office of Sen. Richard Ross

In light of recent controversial comments made by Professor Jonathan Gruber, Senator Richard Ross, along with fellow Republican Senators Bruce Tarr, R-Gloucester, Robert Hedlund, R-Weymouth and Donald Humason R-Westfield have submitted a letter to Governor Deval Patrick requesting he ask for Gruber’s immediate resignation as a member of the Massachusetts Health Connector Board.

As stated in the letter, Professor Gruber knowingly admitted to acts of deceit towards the American public, claiming that the ‘“lack of transparency [being] a huge political advantage” during the debate and passage of the Affordable Care Act (“ACA”), and the “stupidity of the American voter…was really, really critical for the thing to pass.”’

The Health Connector Board and its members have a significant impact on the Commonwealth, as they are heavily involved in all policy, regulatory, and program decisions pertaining to the health and wellness of those the Massachusetts Health Connector serves. “Professor Gruber’s comments are not only in direct opposition to those of us who seek to expand public trust in government they call into question his ability to act impartially and in a manner that upholds the integrity of the Health Connector Board. Professor Gruber’s advocacy for an ideology founded in deceit should have no place in our government,” the Caucus wrote.

“As a matter of principle, I think it is imperative that Professor Gruber go,” said Senator Ross. “The people of the Commonwealth expect those who make and carry out policy to do so in a transparent and ethical manner. Professor Gruber has betrayed the trust of the American people with his comments and actions. The Commonwealth of Massachusetts must cut ties with him in order to retain some sense of integrity if we are to serve the people effectively.”