Scott MacKay's Commentary: Recent Episodes
The Public's Radio
Change is coming to the Rhode Island Statehouse. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay welcomes Speaker-elect Joe Shekarchi.
Change is coming to the Rhode Island Statehouse. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay welcomes Speaker-elect Joe Shekarchi.
As the presidential election continues to play out, The Public's Radio political analyst Scott MacKay joined host Chuck Hinman to break down the implications of Tuesday's election results in Rhode Island and Southeastern Massachusetts.
As the presidential election continues to play out, The Public's Radio political analyst Scott MacKay joined host Chuck Hinman to break down the implications of Tuesday's election results in Rhode Island and Southeastern Massachusetts.
Election Day uncertainty was once rare. That’s far from the case this week, with the official Election Day upon us. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay takes a pre-election look back and ahead.
Election Day uncertainty was once rare. That’s far from the case this week, with the official Election Day upon us. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay takes a pre-election look back and ahead.
Each year, the Public’s Radio explores in depth a community, its people and the decisions it faces. In this election year, we go to Cranston. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay ponders the diverse politics of Rhode Island’s second-largest city.
Each year, the Public’s Radio explores in depth a community, its people and the decisions it faces. In this election year, we go to Cranston. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay ponders the diverse politics of Rhode Island’s second-largest city.
Rhode Island Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse used the Amy Coney Barrett Supreme Court hearing to rail against anonymous money influencing the nation’s highest court. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay explains.
Rhode Island Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse used the Amy Coney Barrett Supreme Court hearing to rail against anonymous money influencing the nation’s highest court. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay explains.
Meet Providence native Mike Donilon. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay says that no political operative is as close as he is to Joe Biden.
Meet Providence native Mike Donilon. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay says that no political operative is as close as he is to Joe Biden.
The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay has thoughts on how we can all work for a safe and accurate vote tally.
The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay has thoughts on how we can all work for a safe and accurate vote tally.
From virus outbreaks to remote learning, higher education is fraught these days. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay says it's time to rethink how we invest in colleges.
From virus outbreaks to remote learning, higher education is fraught these days. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay says it's time to rethink how we invest in colleges.
Every day brings more bad news about New England’s restaurant industry. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay says this industry will need help to survive COVID-19 and the coming cold weather.
Every day brings more bad news about New England’s restaurant industry. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay says this industry will need help to survive COVID-19 and the coming cold weather.
Progressive Democrats had strong showings in Rhode Island’s recent General Assembly primaries. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay says now the hard part begins in a state beset with challenges.
Progressive Democrats had strong showings in Rhode Island’s recent General Assembly primaries. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay says now the hard part begins in a state beset with challenges.
Rhode Island is facing unprecedented economic and health issues. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay wonders where the General Assembly has been.
Rhode Island is facing unprecedented economic and health issues. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay wonders where the General Assembly has been.
Rhode Island Gov. Gina Raimondo is scheduled today to announce a plan for opening public schools. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay says caution may be the best path.
Rhode Island Gov. Gina Raimondo is scheduled today to announce a plan for opening public schools. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay says caution may be the best path.
Joe Biden and the Democrats forged an uplifting convention. Now the spotlight turns to Donald Trump and the Republicans. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay says these virtual gatherings presage a rough campaign over the virus, the economy and what the nation stands for.
Joe Biden and the Democrats forged an uplifting convention. Now the spotlight turns to Donald Trump and the Republicans. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay says these virtual gatherings presage a rough campaign over the virus, the economy and what the nation stands for.
From the halls of Congress to your town hall, campaigning will be different in this time of pandemic. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay parses an unpredictable election cycle.
From the halls of Congress to your town hall, campaigning will be different in this time of pandemic. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay parses an unpredictable election cycle.
From President Donald Trump on down, politicians from Providence to Pasadena are calling for a return to in-person schools this fall. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay says not so fast.
From President Donald Trump on down, politicians from Providence to Pasadena are calling for a return to in-person schools this fall. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay says not so fast.
The lazy, hazy days of summer are here. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay says it’s time for some time off.
The lazy, hazy days of summer are here. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay says it’s time for some time off.
Voting in a time of pandemic will be a challenge across the nation. Rhode Island lawmakers head back to the Statehouse today with the matter of mail-in ballots still unresolved.The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay says the state should follow Massachusetts’ example.
Voting in a time of pandemic will be a challenge across the nation. Rhode Island lawmakers head back to the Statehouse today with the matter of mail-in ballots still unresolved.The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay says the state should follow Massachusetts’ example.
There are just seven weeks left in the Massachusetts U.S. Senate Democratic primary campaign between incumbent Ed Markey and Congressman Joe Kennedy III. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay says it appears this race will go down to the wire.
There are just seven weeks left in the Massachusetts U.S. Senate Democratic primary campaign between incumbent Ed Markey and Congressman Joe Kennedy III. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay says it appears this race will go down to the wire.
COVID-19 cases are surging again. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay says the response to the coronavirus crisis appears to mirror all that’s wrong with our political climate.
COVID-19 cases are surging again. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay says the response to the coronavirus crisis appears to mirror all that’s wrong with our political climate.
From New Bedford to Napa, policing is getting new scrutiny in the wake of protests against police misconduct. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay says calls for change have a new sense of urgency.
From New Bedford to Napa, policing is getting new scrutiny in the wake of protests against police misconduct. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay says calls for change have a new sense of urgency.
Voting is the bedrock of self-government and democracy. The most practical way of ushering change in our country comes through the ballot box. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay says what's happened there locally and nationally in recent times threatens our democracy and our way of life.
Voting is the bedrock of self-government and democracy. The most practical way of ushering change in our country comes through the ballot box. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay says what's happened there locally and nationally in recent times threatens our democracy and our way of life.
Last week’s protests were both convulsive and heartening. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay ponders what’s next for the latest movement against racism.
Last week’s protests were both convulsive and heartening. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay ponders what’s next for the latest movement against racism.
Rhode Island’s presidential primary is Tuesday. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay says voters are lucky this election is much ado about not much.
Rhode Island’s presidential primary is Tuesday. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay says voters are lucky this election is much ado about not much.
Today is Memorial Day, when we honor fallen soldiers and kick off summer with celebrations that often involve food. Rhode Island’s restaurants would normally expect to be packed. But The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay says COVID-19 has made a tough business even harder.
Today is Memorial Day, when we honor fallen soldiers and kick off summer with celebrations that often involve food. Rhode Island’s restaurants would normally expect to be packed. But The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay says COVID-19 has made a tough business even harder.
It’s graduation time for the class of 2020, which will be known as the COVID-19 class. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay says this may be a good time for graduates to put the brakes on a rush to college campuses.
It’s graduation time for the class of 2020, which will be known as the COVID-19 class. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay says this may be a good time for graduates to put the brakes on a rush to college campuses.
Massachusetts has suffered more than other New England states from COVID-19. But the Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay says Rhode Island government’s financial troubles may be the region’s worst.
Massachusetts has suffered more than other New England states from COVID-19. But the Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay says Rhode Island government’s financial troubles may be the region’s worst.
We all want this to end. But The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay says we need to put patience before politics and the economy.
We all want this to end. But The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay says we need to put patience before politics and the economy.
Rhode Island’s two big hospital systems have been slammed financially by COVID-19. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay says the virus is renewing calls for a Lifespan-Care New England merger.
Rhode Island’s two big hospital systems have been slammed financially by COVID-19. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay says the virus is renewing calls for a Lifespan-Care New England merger.
Among the grueling challenges facing the government is how to conduct honest and accessible elections in this year of pandemic. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay has some thoughts on ensuring that voters don’t have to risk their health to cast ballots.
Among the grueling challenges facing the government is how to conduct honest and accessible elections in this year of pandemic. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay has some thoughts on ensuring that voters don’t have to risk their health to cast ballots.
We live in grim times, as the COVID-19 crisis infects just about every aspect of our lives. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay says the health crisis has exposed deep divides in our society that must be addressed.
We live in grim times, as the COVID-19 crisis infects just about every aspect of our lives. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay says the health crisis has exposed deep divides in our society that must be addressed.
Vermont's Bernie Sanders has now folded his presidential campaign. The Public's Radio political analyst, Scott MacKay used to cover politics in Vermont and has known Sen. Sanders for 50 years.
Vermont's Bernie Sanders has now folded his presidential campaign. The Public's Radio political analyst, Scott MacKay used to cover politics in Vermont and has known Sen. Sanders for 50 years.
Anyone who knew Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders when he was young couldn't predict he'd be a serious presidential candidate. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay has known Sanders for 45 years and he reflects on the origins of the narrow Democratic presidential front-runner.
Anyone who knew Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders when he was young couldn't predict he'd be a serious presidential candidate. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay has known Sanders for 45 years and he reflects on the origins of the narrow Democratic presidential front-runner.
Newport, Rhode Island is famous as a summer playground for the rich and powerful.The city has known hard times before. But The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay says its tourism-fueled economy is ill-prepared for a pandemic.
Newport, Rhode Island is famous as a summer playground for the rich and powerful.The city has known hard times before. But The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay says its tourism-fueled economy is ill-prepared for a pandemic.
Spring has sprung in precarious times. Even as the news gets darker, the days are getting lighter, the world is getting greener, and New Englanders are rising to the occasion. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay muses on how we are coping.
Spring has sprung in precarious times. Even as the news gets darker, the days are getting lighter, the world is getting greener, and New Englanders are rising to the occasion. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay muses on how we are coping.
The coronavirus pandemic has changed everyday life as we know it, with no end in sight. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay says the coming economic downturn threatens to upend state budgets in Rhode Island and Massachusetts.
The coronavirus pandemic has changed everyday life as we know it, with no end in sight. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay says the coming economic downturn threatens to upend state budgets in Rhode Island and Massachusetts.
No one is exempt from the disruptions of American life caused by coronavirus. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay says that what for some is a serious inconvenience could be disaster for others.
No one is exempt from the disruptions of American life caused by coronavirus. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay says that what for some is a serious inconvenience could be disaster for others.
When it comes to the presidential campaign, America has become a country of old men. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay parses Elizabeth Warren’s failed bid for the White House.
When it comes to the presidential campaign, America has become a country of old men. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay parses Elizabeth Warren’s failed bid for the White House.
The topic of civic literacy in Rhode Island schools is back at the Statehouse. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay says there has never been a better moment to teach the young about the foundations of American society.
The topic of civic literacy in Rhode Island schools is back at the Statehouse. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay says there has never been a better moment to teach the young about the foundations of American society.
New Hampshire’s first in the nation presidential primary was once a make-or-break election. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay wonders if that will be the case this year.
New Hampshire’s first in the nation presidential primary was once a make-or-break election. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay wonders if that will be the case this year.
The eyes of the nation turn to Iowa tonight for the presidential caucus. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay says Iowa shouldn’t be the first nominating event.
The eyes of the nation turn to Iowa tonight for the presidential caucus. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay says Iowa shouldn’t be the first nominating event.
Rhode Island Gov. Gina Raimondo’s $10 billion state budget plan for next year has received a rocky reception at the General Assembly. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay punctures some of the state's taxing and spending myths in this week’s commentary.
Rhode Island Gov. Gina Raimondo’s $10 billion state budget plan for next year has received a rocky reception at the General Assembly. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay punctures some of the state's taxing and spending myths in this week’s commentary.
On the day we celebrate the life of civil rights leader Rev. Martin Luther King Jr., The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay says the best way to honor King’s legacy would be to embrace his commitment to a just society.
On the day we celebrate the life of civil rights leader Rev. Martin Luther King Jr., The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay says the best way to honor King’s legacy would be to embrace his commitment to a just society.
President Donald Trump’s order to kill an Iranian general has unsettled the Middle East. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay says that once again American foreign policy seems to ignore the lessons of history in this shattered region.
President Donald Trump’s order to kill an Iranian general has unsettled the Middle East. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay says that once again American foreign policy seems to ignore the lessons of history in this shattered region.
The 2020 Rhode Island General Assembly session kicks off on Tuesday. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott Mackay says this would be a good year to make life better for working people.
The 2020 Rhode Island General Assembly session kicks off on Tuesday. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott Mackay says this would be a good year to make life better for working people.
Rhode Island firefighters are fighting back against a report from The Public's Radio and ProPublica on misplaced breathing tubes that have cost lives. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay says it’s time for fire officials to face reality and work for better training for emergency medical responders.
Rhode Island firefighters are fighting back against a report from The Public's Radio and ProPublica on misplaced breathing tubes that have cost lives. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay says it’s time for fire officials to face reality and work for better training for emergency medical responders.
A multi-million dollar river of red ink is coursing through Rhode Island’s largest hospital system. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay parses the latest bad news from Providence-based Lifespan.
A multi-million dollar river of red ink is coursing through Rhode Island’s largest hospital system. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay parses the latest bad news from Providence-based Lifespan.
Rhode Island’s campaign finance laws are under attack from a conservative interest group. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay says a successful legal challenge to the law requiring disclosure of donors would be a blow to government transparency.
Rhode Island’s campaign finance laws are under attack from a conservative interest group. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay says a successful legal challenge to the law requiring disclosure of donors would be a blow to government transparency.
It’s Thanksgiving season, a time to count our blessings and celebrate with a feast. It’s long been a holiday that emphasized family and unity, but The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay worries that national political division may make that difficult this year.
It’s Thanksgiving season, a time to count our blessings and celebrate with a feast. It’s long been a holiday that emphasized family and unity, but The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay worries that national political division may make that difficult this year.
For the fourth time in American history, Congress is ensnared in the process of impeaching a sitting president. Scott MacKay has more in his commentary for The Public’s Radio.
For the fourth time in American history, Congress is ensnared in the process of impeaching a sitting president. Scott MacKay has more in his commentary for The Public’s Radio.
Before Americans fell in love with cars, trains provided reliable and quick transportation among New England cities. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay says its past time for better train connections between Providence and Boston.
Before Americans fell in love with cars, trains provided reliable and quick transportation among New England cities. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay says its past time for better train connections between Providence and Boston.
Health care has emerged again as a hot button issue in the run-up to the 2020 presidential election. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay wonders how the Medicare For All debate will affect Democratic chances of recapturing the White House.
Health care has emerged again as a hot button issue in the run-up to the 2020 presidential election. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay wonders how the Medicare For All debate will affect Democratic chances of recapturing the White House.
As the state prepares to take over Providence’s faltering schools, The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay says a big focus must be on teachers.
As the state prepares to take over Providence’s faltering schools, The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay says a big focus must be on teachers.
Rhode Island’s two gambling companies are locked in a nasty joust over millions of state dollars. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay says it’s time to ratchet down the rhetoric and seek a solution.
Rhode Island’s two gambling companies are locked in a nasty joust over millions of state dollars. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay says it’s time to ratchet down the rhetoric and seek a solution.
Massachusetts has it all over Rhode Island in student achievement as measured by test scores. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay points to another public school issue where Rhode Island should catch up.
Massachusetts has it all over Rhode Island in student achievement as measured by test scores. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay points to another public school issue where Rhode Island should catch up.
The Buddy Cianci play is boffo at the box office for Trinity Reperatory in Providence. The most popular story on the Boston Globe’s web site recently was about the whereabouts of Whitey Bulger’s longtime gal pal. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay parses the New England obsession with organized crime and political corruption.
The Buddy Cianci play is boffo at the box office for Trinity Reperatory in Providence. The most popular story on the Boston Globe’s web site recently was about the whereabouts of Whitey Bulger’s longtime gal pal. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay parses the New England obsession with organized crime and political corruption.
While voters watch the impeachment joust in Washington, D.C., Massachusetts is gearing up for a battle royal of a U.S. Senate primary. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay says the Joseph Kennedy III versus Edward Markey contest is likely to be negative, expensive and close.
While voters watch the impeachment joust in Washington, D.C., Massachusetts is gearing up for a battle royal of a U.S. Senate primary. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay says the Joseph Kennedy III versus Edward Markey contest is likely to be negative, expensive and close.
The parade is forming now for the primaries and caucuses that in less than five months will winnow an overflowing group of presidential candidates. Scott MacKay, political analyst for The Public’s Radio, parses the Democratic field and talks about how 2020 will be different than 2016.
The parade is forming now for the primaries and caucuses that in less than five months will winnow an overflowing group of presidential candidates. Scott MacKay, political analyst for The Public’s Radio, parses the Democratic field and talks about how 2020 will be different than 2016.
The state takeover of Providence schools is underway. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay wonders if Rhode Island’s notoriously shortsighted political establishment can forge a turnaround plan and stick with it.
The state takeover of Providence schools is underway. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay wonders if Rhode Island’s notoriously shortsighted political establishment can forge a turnaround plan and stick with it.
Rhode Island’s political leaders have been ensnared in a bitter joust between two gambling companies that provide several thousand jobs and millions in state revenue. Gov. Gina Raimondo has sided with IGT, which provides technology and machines to the state’s casinos, over Twin River, which operates the state’s two casinos.
While this battle consumes the Statehouse and generates headlines, The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay ponders a bigger issue: Is the billion-dollar gambling industry reaching a saturation point in New England and other northeastern states?
Rhode Island’s political leaders have been ensnared in a bitter joust between two gambling companies that provide several thousand jobs and millions in state revenue. Gov. Gina Raimondo has sided with IGT, which provides technology and machines to the state’s casinos, over Twin River, which operates the state’s two casinos.
While this battle consumes the Statehouse and generates headlines, The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay ponders a bigger issue: Is the billion-dollar gambling industry reaching a saturation point in New England and other northeastern states?
On Labor Day, not all American workers sharing in growing economy. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay says we should honor the labor movement and make the day about more than a wave goodbye to summer.
On Labor Day, not all American workers sharing in growing economy. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay says we should honor the labor movement and make the day about more than a wave goodbye to summer.
Rhode Island business leaders and politicians are always looking for the businesses that bring jobs to the state. This week, The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay takes us to an Ocean State success story.
Rhode Island business leaders and politicians are always looking for the businesses that bring jobs to the state. This week, The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay takes us to an Ocean State success story.
From Rhode Island to the Rio Grande, immigration continues to be a divisive topic. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay says it time to confront the myths that surround immigration.
From Rhode Island to the Rio Grande, immigration continues to be a divisive topic. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay says it time to confront the myths that surround immigration.
Another round of mass shootings has killed innocent Americans in Texas and Ohio. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay says inertia at the federal level raises the question once again of whether states need to step up in the gun control debate.
Another round of mass shootings has killed innocent Americans in Texas and Ohio. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay says inertia at the federal level raises the question once again of whether states need to step up in the gun control debate.
The war between two Rhode Island gambling giants over millions in state money slogs on with no end in sight. Scott MacKay, political analyst for The Public’s Radio, says Gov. Gina Raimondo isn’t looking good on this.
The war between two Rhode Island gambling giants over millions in state money slogs on with no end in sight. Scott MacKay, political analyst for The Public’s Radio, says Gov. Gina Raimondo isn’t looking good on this.
Last year the Boston Red Sox forged the best record in team history and won the World Series, but things haven’t gone so well this year. Scott MacKay, political analyst for The Public's Radio, says Rhode Island Gov. Gina Raimondo’s summer resembles the Red Sox flagging fortunes.
Last year the Boston Red Sox forged the best record in team history and won the World Series, but things haven’t gone so well this year. Scott MacKay, political analyst for The Public's Radio, says Rhode Island Gov. Gina Raimondo’s summer resembles the Red Sox flagging fortunes.
Republicans around the country are pleased with the recent U.S. Supreme Court decision allowing partisan gerrymandering of Congressional and state legislative districts. But while that will help Republicans in red states, the Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay says it will be a huge barrier for Republicans in Massachusetts and Rhode Island.
Republicans around the country are pleased with the recent U.S. Supreme Court decision allowing partisan gerrymandering of Congressional and state legislative districts. But while that will help Republicans in red states, the Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay says it will be a huge barrier for Republicans in Massachusetts and Rhode Island.
A report issued recently by an independent group from Johns Hopkins University found Providence public schools are among the worst in the nation. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay wonders why any Rhode Island education or political leader was surprised by this.
A report issued recently by an independent group from Johns Hopkins University found Providence public schools are among the worst in the nation. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay wonders why any Rhode Island education or political leader was surprised by this.
Few local celebrations in the United States stay relevant after two centuries. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay takes us this week to his adopted hometown of Bristol, Rhode Island which marks Independence Day in a manner unlike any other community in the nation.
Few local celebrations in the United States stay relevant after two centuries. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay takes us this week to his adopted hometown of Bristol, Rhode Island which marks Independence Day in a manner unlike any other community in the nation.
Rhode Island regulators have rejected a plan for a $1 billion fossil fuel plant in the woods of Burrillville. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay says this decision should accelerate New England’s reliance on renewable sources to fill energy needs.
Rhode Island regulators have rejected a plan for a $1 billion fossil fuel plant in the woods of Burrillville. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay says this decision should accelerate New England’s reliance on renewable sources to fill energy needs.
The waning days of Rhode Island’s annual General Assembly session have been filled with back room intrigue and chaos. Scott MacKay, political analyst for The Public’s Radio, says the that despite reforms, it’s business as usual on Smith Hill.
The waning days of Rhode Island’s annual General Assembly session have been filled with back room intrigue and chaos. Scott MacKay, political analyst for The Public’s Radio, says the that despite reforms, it’s business as usual on Smith Hill.
Rhode Island Gov. Gina Raimondo has stepped in to halt the takeover of a string of Rhode Island hospitals by Partners HealthCare, a Boston hospital giant. Scott MacKay, political analyst for The Public’s Radio, says a Rhode Island solution to the hospital business will require compromises that the state’s hospital leaders have not been willing to forge.
Rhode Island Gov. Gina Raimondo has stepped in to halt the takeover of a string of Rhode Island hospitals by Partners HealthCare, a Boston hospital giant. Scott MacKay, political analyst for The Public’s Radio, says a Rhode Island solution to the hospital business will require compromises that the state’s hospital leaders have not been willing to forge.
A string of progressive victories in last year’s General Assembly campaigns raised hopes among left-leaning Democrats for this year’s Rhode Island legislative session. But political analyst for The Public’s Radio, Scott MacKay, says that so far the election victories have not translated to change.
A string of progressive victories in last year’s General Assembly campaigns raised hopes among left-leaning Democrats for this year’s Rhode Island legislative session. But political analyst for The Public’s Radio, Scott MacKay, says that so far the election victories have not translated to change.
It’s the season of lilacs, mortarboards and platitudes. This week, Scott MacKay, political analyst for The Public’s Radio, gives college graduates a commencement address.
It’s the season of lilacs, mortarboards and platitudes. This week, Scott MacKay, political analyst for The Public’s Radio, gives college graduates a commencement address.
In Rhode Island last week, efforts to codify Roe v. Wade stalled, but the political analyst for the Public’s Radio, Scott MacKay, says Rhode Island lawmakers offer a sliver of hope for finding agreement on this divisive issue.
In Rhode Island last week, efforts to codify Roe v. Wade stalled, but the political analyst for the Public’s Radio, Scott MacKay, says Rhode Island lawmakers offer a sliver of hope for finding agreement on this divisive issue.
Providence Mayor Jorge Elorza gave an upbeat budget address to the city last week. But The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay says it’s what Elorza didn’t mention that should concern all of Rhode Island.
Providence Mayor Jorge Elorza gave an upbeat budget address to the city last week. But The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay says it’s what Elorza didn’t mention that should concern all of Rhode Island.
The hospital merger battles are heating up again in Rhode Island and Massachusetts. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay says this dispute is an example of how Rhode Island’s political establishment has failed to address health care policy.
The hospital merger battles are heating up again in Rhode Island and Massachusetts. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay says this dispute is an example of how Rhode Island’s political establishment has failed to address health care policy.
Management at Stop & Shop and five United Food and Commercial Workers union locals have come to a tentative contract agreement, ending an 11 day strike by 31,000 workers in Rhode Island, Massachusetts and Connecticut. Stop & Shop is New England’s largest grocery chain. Scott MacKay, political analyst for The Public’s Radio, says this strike illustrates how high the stakes are for both sides in an era when retailing is undergoing big changes.
Management at Stop & Shop and five United Food and Commercial Workers union locals have come to a tentative contract agreement, ending an 11 day strike by 31,000 workers in Rhode Island, Massachusetts and Connecticut. Stop & Shop is New England’s largest grocery chain. Scott MacKay, political analyst for The Public’s Radio, says this strike illustrates how high the stakes are for both sides in an era when retailing is undergoing big changes.
Rhode Island’s governor and General Assembly love to talk about responsible budgets and keeping taxes low. But The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay says the Statehouse crowd doesn’t much care about the state’s city and town budgets.
Rhode Island’s governor and General Assembly love to talk about responsible budgets and keeping taxes low. But The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay says the Statehouse crowd doesn’t much care about the state’s city and town budgets.
The Rhode Island Statehouse was once a bastion of anti-abortion sentiment. But not anymore. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott Mackay parses what’s changed.
The Rhode Island Statehouse was once a bastion of anti-abortion sentiment. But not anymore. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott Mackay parses what’s changed.
Every year, The Public’s Radio produces a series called One Square Mile exploring a community. This year, we look at Pawtucket, Rhode Island’s 4th largest city and one of its oldest. Pawtucket, like many American industrial towns, has both hopes and challenges as it copes with a changing American economy.
Every year, The Public’s Radio produces a series called One Square Mile exploring a community. This year, we look at Pawtucket, Rhode Island’s 4th largest city and one of its oldest. Pawtucket, like many American industrial towns, has both hopes and challenges as it copes with a changing American economy.
The Rev. Thomas Tobin, Roman Catholic Bishop of Providence, is an outspoken religious leader on a variety of political issues. Yet, The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay says the bishop still doesn’t seem to understand the depth of skepticism about the church’s stance on priest sexual abuse issues.
The Rev. Thomas Tobin, Roman Catholic Bishop of Providence, is an outspoken religious leader on a variety of political issues. Yet, The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay says the bishop still doesn’t seem to understand the depth of skepticism about the church’s stance on priest sexual abuse issues.
Online retailing giant Amazon has decided not to pursue a new headquarters in New York City, despite the promise of billions in government subsidies. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay wonders why it’s in the interests of average taxpayers to shower money on huge corporations.
Online retailing giant Amazon has decided not to pursue a new headquarters in New York City, despite the promise of billions in government subsidies. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay wonders why it’s in the interests of average taxpayers to shower money on huge corporations.
The nation has barely dodged another federal government shutdown. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay says the constant shutdown threats undermine democratic values and faith in the country.
The nation has barely dodged another federal government shutdown. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay says the constant shutdown threats undermine democratic values and faith in the country.
Another potential federal shutdown looms this week as lawmakers in Washington struggle to reach a consensus on immigration issues. The Public’s Radio political analyst, Scott MacKay, says it's a good moment to reflect on our immigration history.
Another potential federal shutdown looms this week as lawmakers in Washington struggle to reach a consensus on immigration issues. The Public’s Radio political analyst, Scott MacKay, says it's a good moment to reflect on our immigration history.
Abortion is back as a contentious topic at Statehouses from Boston to Sacramento. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay says this may be the year Rhode Island lawmakers protect abortion rights.
Abortion is back as a contentious topic at Statehouses from Boston to Sacramento. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay says this may be the year Rhode Island lawmakers protect abortion rights.
With legal pot shops springing up in Massachusetts like April daffodils, this looks like the year the Rhode Island General Assembly finally deals seriously with recreational Marijuana. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay says Rhode Island ought to follow Massachusetts lead.
With legal pot shops springing up in Massachusetts like April daffodils, this looks like the year the Rhode Island General Assembly finally deals seriously with recreational Marijuana. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay says Rhode Island ought to follow Massachusetts lead.
Rhode Island Gov. Gina Raimondo wants her state to be more like Massachusetts. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay wonders what that would look like.
Rhode Island Gov. Gina Raimondo wants her state to be more like Massachusetts. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay wonders what that would look like.
The latest round of Rhode Island public school achievement test scores came with all the subtlety of a winter plunge into Narragansett Bay. The Public’s Radio Political Analyst Scott MacKay parses the differences between Rhode Island and Massachusetts.
The latest round of Rhode Island public school achievement test scores came with all the subtlety of a winter plunge into Narragansett Bay. The Public’s Radio Political Analyst Scott MacKay parses the differences between Rhode Island and Massachusetts.
It looks like Rhode Island is going to lose a U.S. House seat after the 2020 Census. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay explains this loss of Ocean State clout.
It looks like Rhode Island is going to lose a U.S. House seat after the 2020 Census. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay explains this loss of Ocean State clout.
The Public’s Radio political analyst, Scott MacKay, brings us his annual tongue-in-cheeky political Christmas poem. With apologies to Clement Clarke Moore.
The Public’s Radio political analyst, Scott MacKay, brings us his annual tongue-in-cheeky political Christmas poem. With apologies to Clement Clarke Moore.
No one is born a well-informed and competent citizen. That’s why The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay says it’s time for public schools to address civic culture and historical illiteracy.
No one is born a well-informed and competent citizen. That’s why The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay says it’s time for public schools to address civic culture and historical illiteracy.
The 2018 midterm elections brought some wins for Democrats and Republicans. It brought Democrats back into control of the House and solidified Republican control of the Senate. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay parses the lessons learned from the implications of 2020.
The 2018 midterm elections brought some wins for Democrats and Republicans. It brought Democrats back into control of the House and solidified Republican control of the Senate. The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay parses the lessons learned from the implications of 2020.
It used to be that all politics –particularly in parochial New England –is local. But The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay says this election cycle everything seems to be a national.
It used to be that all politics –particularly in parochial New England –is local. But The Public’s Radio political analyst Scott MacKay says this election cycle everything seems to be a national.
From the Kavanagh hearings in Washington to the Rhode Island governor campaign, gender is proving to be a strong political factor. RIPR political analyst Scott MacKay sums up Rhode Island’s first governor debate and looks ahead.
From the Kavanagh hearings in Washington to the Rhode Island governor campaign, gender is proving to be a strong political factor. RIPR political analyst Scott MacKay sums up Rhode Island’s first governor debate and looks ahead.
The first general election poll is out in the Rhode Island governor campaign and the kickoff television debate is Thursday. RIPR political analyst Scott MacKay says Republican Allan Fung’s biggest obstacle is the lack of unity in his own party.
The first general election poll is out in the Rhode Island governor campaign and the kickoff television debate is Thursday. RIPR political analyst Scott MacKay says Republican Allan Fung’s biggest obstacle is the lack of unity in his own party.
Election season starts early next month with primaries in Rhode Island and Massachusetts. Rhode Island Public Radio Political Analyst Scott MacKay takes this opportunity to consider New England’s history of restricting who can cast ballots.
Election season starts early next month with primaries in Rhode Island and Massachusetts. Rhode Island Public Radio Political Analyst Scott MacKay takes this opportunity to consider New England’s history of restricting who can cast ballots.