Web question of the week

Mar 18, 2021
Mar 18, 2021

How is Gov. Charlie Baker doing? Baker long held the distinction of being one of the country's most popular governors, with an approval rating near 80% as recently as last August. But frustration over COVID-19 vaccine roll-outs, lingering restrictions on public gatherings and confusion around when or if children will go back to school caught up to him in a hurry. A poll this week found 52% of Massachusetts residents approve of Baker's job performance -- though he still leads potential challengers in a hypothetical election. (Baker has not yet said if he'll run for a third term.) What do you think of Baker's performance?

FINE OR BETTER: Baker's job has been one of the most challenging imaginable, and the root of most of his problems begin someplace else, such as the low supply of COVID-19 available vaccine. Massachusetts has been well served by his leadership.

DISAPPOINTING: Baker may have challenges, but he's the governor. It's up to him to ensure the state has a buttoned-up approach to things like sign-ups for vaccination clinics, for example. Maybe it’s time for him to consider another job.