Healey Snubs New Bedford Portuguese Feast Again

I'm sure it happened, but I don't recall the former Massachusetts governor, Republican Charlie Baker, missing opening night ceremonies for New Bedford's legendary Feast of the Blessed Sacrament.

Baker and his wife Lauren seemed to enjoy a Thursday evening stroll through Madeira Field after the ceremonies, meeting people and sipping Madeira wine as they went.

Even Democrat Deval Patrick, born to be uptight and irritable, made time to participate in opening ceremonies and shake a couple of hands while flanked by Massachusetts State Police Officers.

So why is it that the current governor, Democrat Maura Healey, can't seem to fit the Portuguese Feast into her schedule? It's perplexing.

The 109th Feast of the Blessed Sacrament is over after attracting potentially record-setting crowds to the four-day event that included the annual parade from Brooklawn Park to Madeira Field.

There were no Maura Healey sightings at the feast. Not even rumors of sightings or AI images. Nothing. Doesn't she understand that this is a BFD in these parts? Politicians have been pandering for votes at the feast for many decades.

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In 2023, while a candidate for governor, Healey spent a few minutes in the booth handing out malassadas alongside Mayor Jon Mitchell. Then she was gone, never to return.

New Bedford Public Information Officer Jonathan Darling said Mitchell was "neither disappointed nor frustrated" that Healey missed the opening ceremonies.

"He understands the scheduling challenges Gov. Healey faces in holding a leadership position statewide," Darling said.

Darling said Healey's office informed Mitchell on Thursday morning that Healey was unable to attend that night's opening ceremonies.

On Friday, Healey Press Secretary Karissa Hand said, "The Governor was unable to attend this year, but the Lieutenant Governor (Kim Driscoll) was there last night." When asked if Healey would participate in Sunday's parade, Hand said only, "No, she is unable to attend this year."

Maura Healey has not attended a Feast of the Blessed Sacrament since being elected governor. Next year is an election year. I think Healey will find time to be there.