Are Too Many Prosecutors Being Appointed by Governor Patrick?

In recent years the question has arisen as to whether too many prosecutors are being appointed by Governor Deval Patrick.

While it is an interesting question recent history shows that this is not the case.

Of the past 15 nominees which are each listed on my site.

Only three were coming from a prosecutor’s position: Hogan, McCarthy and Brieger.

However after reviewing the resumes it is apparent that many of the nominees are from the public sector.

Of the same 15 nominees only three were from the private sector: Bisenius, Stanton, and Wilson.

Of the remaining twelve nominees three were reappointments, so of course they were already state employees.

Of course this does not mean they are any less qualified than those who work in the private sector. 

I have spoken to many lawyers throughout District Two who have applied or are considering applying for an appointed position. There is the perception that public employees have an unfair advantage compared to private sector employees. This perception is supported by the resumes of those that actually get nominations.

Names of those who apply for these nominations are kept secret, and no statistics are currently supplied to the public to insure that all is equal and the courts are on the level.

For those who are concerned that too many prosecutors are being appointed it is useful to know that the record shows this is not the case.

It would also be useful to know that the applicants from the private sector are being treated the same as those from the public sector.

I advocate for openness in the nomination process  and would prefer that the names of all nominees be made public, and at least as a first step, that meaningful statistics are released to clarify the hiring practices of this and any governor.

If there is anything you would like to know about the Council please feel free to contact me at patrickmccabegovernorscouncil@gmail.com.

Patrick McCabe is candidate for Governor's Council District 2 with a Primary Thursday, September 6, 2012.