Massachusetts Governor's Councilor Mara Dolan Faces Primary Challenge Over Judicial Nomination Vote
Massachusetts Governor's Councilor Mara Dolan is facing a fierce primary election challenge from Margie Palladino, a retired trial attorney and domestic abuse advocate. The challenge stems from Dolan's vote in April to confirm Margie Ferriter as an associate justice for Probate and Family Court. Palladino initiated her campaign after Dolan's vote, arguing that Dolan failed domestic abuse survivors by supporting Ferriter, whose former program, the High Conflict Parent Education Program at William James College, had drawn criticism for allegedly requiring survivors to participate alongside their alleged abusers. Dolan, who defeated a 25-year incumbent in 2024, defends her vote, asserting Ferriter was highly qualified and experienced. The Governor's Council confirmed Ferriter by a 4-3 vote, with Dolan's vote being crucial. 
