Our Challenges
Strengthening Democracy Starts Here
Partners In Democracy was founded in Massachusetts, and we’re working to build a beacon for healthy democracy right here in the Commonwealth.
Why Massachusetts?
Here in Massachusetts, we pride ourselves on our history as the birthplace of American democracy. But cracks have emerged, and our democracy isn’t responsive or effective enough to solve the big problems voters feel: housing, transportation, energy costs.
Massachusetts should be the country’s leading democracy. These ballot measures give us that opportunity. In 2026, let’s build a responsive democracy where everyone’s voice matters.
— John Griffin, Executive Director, PID MA Action
Lack of Accountability in Elections
- Massachusetts is 50th in the country for competitiveness of elections.
- Most elections decided by small numbers of voters in low-turnout primaries.
Lack of Accountability in Office
- We have one of the least transparent state legislatures, making it hard for people to weigh in and help shape the legislative process.
- Massachusetts is uniquely reliant on using discretionary stipends for most members, rather than simply paying legislators a fair base salary.
Declining Trust and Engagement
- Declining voter participation in elections.
- Bigger racial disparities in voter turnout than more than half of the states, including AL and MS.
Building a Beacon for Democracy
Massachusetts is far from being the national model our country needs us to be. The people of MA need to work together to renovate our democracy – not just patch up the cracks, but build a beacon for democracy at its best – responsive, inclusive, and effective.
PID MA Action’s staff and volunteers are reaching out to people in every corner of our Commonwealth, pushing for legislative solutions, and taking direct action through ballot measures.
We Need Your Support
Democracy renovation happens only when people like you decide to stand up for democracy. Learn how you can get involved today!