The dismantling of federal agencies is no longer a hypothetical scenario. It’s happening in real time, with devastating consequences for states like Massachusetts. The federal government, once a stabilizing force for crucial public programs, is being systematically gutted, leaving state governments scrambling to fill the void. Governor Maura Healey must act—immediately—to shield Massachusetts from the fallout.
The alarm bells are ringing. Federal funding supports a vast network of services that keep Massachusetts running: healthcare, housing, transportation, education, climate initiatives, and more. But as political winds shift in Washington, those funds are disappearing. Whether it’s the rollback of National Institutes of Health (NIH) grants, slashed funding for public transit, or the dismantling of consumer protection agencies, the consequences for Massachusetts are dire. And with Elon Musk, of all people, openly advocating for “deleting entire agencies,” the stakes couldn’t be higher.
We can’t pretend this isn’t happening. USAID has already been gutted, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau is barely hanging on, and the Department of Education’s grant programs are on the chopping block. This isn’t just about budget cuts—it’s about a fundamental restructuring of the federal government that leaves states like Massachusetts on their own.
Healey Must Lead, Not React
Massachusetts prides itself on progressive leadership, but the time for waiting is over. We need action on multiple fronts to ensure our essential services don’t collapse under the weight of federal neglect. Healey must take the lead in:
- Conducting an Emergency Audit of Federal Dependencies – We need a full-scale assessment of how much federal money is propping up our programs. Knowing exactly where we’re vulnerable allows us to make strategic decisions before funding disappears.
- Establishing a Contingency Fund – The state must create a financial buffer to protect key services if federal support vanishes. Whether through a new tax strategy, public-private partnerships, or reallocated budget priorities, Massachusetts needs a plan for self-sufficiency.
- Building a Multi-State Alliance – We are not alone. Other blue states are facing the same existential threat. Healey should spearhead a coalition of governors committed to protecting state-level services, pooling resources, and fighting back against reckless federal cuts.
- Taking Legal Action – If federal funding is being stripped in ways that violate legal agreements or constitutional principles, we must challenge these decisions in court. Massachusetts has a history of successfully litigating against federal overreach—this moment calls for the same boldness.
- Engaging the Public – People need to know what’s at stake. Healey’s administration must launch a public information campaign explaining how federal cuts will impact local communities and what individuals can do to help advocate for solutions.
Massachusetts Cannot Afford Complacency
This is not alarmism. This is reality. We are witnessing a full-scale restructuring of the federal government, with states expected to fend for themselves. The question is whether Massachusetts will be prepared—or whether we’ll be caught off guard, watching helplessly as funding vanishes, programs collapse, and jobs disappear.
Healey has an opportunity to cement her legacy not just as a progressive leader, but as a defender of Massachusetts’ economic stability and public services. The alternative is unacceptable.
The federal government is pulling away. It’s time for Massachusetts to stand on its own—and that starts now.
Xylo News 