Boston, MA – Voters across the Commonwealth delivered clear messages on Tuesday’s ballot, preserving transparency in government and rejecting a push to overhaul the primary system. The Associated Press reported that Question 1, which subjects the governor’s office and the Legislature to the state public records law, earned an 85.9% approval rating, with 2,115,728 votes for ‘Yes’ and 347,282 against.

All‑party primary amendment defeated

Question 3, the high‑profile proposal to allow all‑party primaries, was decisively rejected. Approximately 60% of the counted votes opposed the measure, a result echoed by grassroots organizer Jordan Berg Powers, chair of Voter Rights MA. “We preserved our democracy by keeping power in the hands of the people,” Powers said, emphasizing the role of community activists, labor unions and faith‑based groups in the victory.

Former Republican Governor Charlie Baker and former Democratic Governor Deval Patrick had both endorsed the amendment, arguing it would broaden voter choice. Their stance was countered by a coalition of traditional party leaders who warned that the change would undermine the established democratic process.

Other measures see strong support

Question 4, which would allow Election Day voter registration, led with about 56% ‘Yes’ votes, signaling broad approval for expanding voter access. Question 6, a conservation initiative to direct sales‑tax revenue from sporting goods, recreational vehicles and golf courses into a land‑and‑water fund, also appeared to win, with supporters celebrating an estimated $100 million boost for environmental protection.

At a rally in Boston’s Fairmont Copley, campaign leader Katie Theoharides, former energy and environmental affairs secretary, thanked volunteers and highlighted the long‑term benefits for the Commonwealth’s natural resources.

Gun safety law upheld

Voters also backed Question 9, preserving the 2024 gun safety law crafted after the Supreme Court’s Bruen decision. The Associated Press recorded roughly 67% ‘Yes’ votes. The law, which tightens licensing, expands the red‑flag program and updates the assault‑weapon ban, was praised by campaign chair Ruth Zakarin as a safeguard against attempts to roll back strong gun regulations in other states.

“Massachusetts voters said ‘no’ to any playbook that would weaken our protections,” Zakarin said.

Measures that fell short

Question 5, which sought to limit state tax collection, failed to gain traction. Advocacy groups on both sides noted the loss, with Raise Up Massachusetts/Protect Massachusetts Future emphasizing the need to protect critical funding for health care, education and local aid.

Question 8, aimed at rolling back recreational cannabis, was also rejected, reflecting continued support for the state’s progressive marijuana policy.

Close race on zoning amendment

Question 7, proposing statewide zoning changes to allow smaller lot sizes for homes, remains too close to call. With 94% of precincts counted, the ‘No’ side leads by a narrow margin of roughly 30,000 votes (1,238,237 to 1,209,381). This tight result underscores ongoing debates over housing affordability and local control.

Overall, the ballot outcomes illustrate a Commonwealth that values transparent governance, community‑driven policy and responsible stewardship of both public safety and natural resources.

Original reporting: NBC10 Boston — read the source article.