The Massachusetts Fiscal Alliance sharply criticized House Minority Leader Brad Jones (R-North Reading) for his failure to lead the Republican caucus in supporting critical tax reform efforts during the House budget debate.

During today’s House budget debate, Rep. Marc Lombardo (R-Billerica) introduced a series of tax relief amendments aimed at lowering the sales tax, exempting overtime and tips from taxation, and making Massachusetts more competitive with neighboring states. Shockingly, when Rep. Lombardo requested recorded roll call votes on these common-sense reforms, he faced resistance—not only from Democrats, but also from within his own caucus, coordinated by none other than Minority Leader Jones.

“This is a blatant failure of leadership. Minority Leader Jones chose to side with the entrenched Beacon Hill political machine instead of standing up for working families who are being crushed by high taxes and rising costs. He’s letting his personal feelings go before the interest of the taxpayers. It’s the definition of being a sore winner,” stated Paul D. Craney, Executive Director of the Massachusetts Fiscal Alliance.

Despite Lombardo’s efforts to get his colleagues on the record on these vital reforms, Jones and his allies blocked opportunities for transparency by resisting recorded votes. This inexcusable move prevented voters from holding their elected officials accountable at a time when affordability in Massachusetts has reached a crisis point.

“Instead of rallying Republicans around issues that unite them like fiscal responsibility, Leader Jones coordinated with Democratic leadership to suppress debate and shield lawmakers from taking tough votes. Taxpayers deserve better than a Republican leader more interested in settling scores and protecting himself than fighting for meaningful reform,” noted Craney.

“Massachusetts is at a crossroads right now. There has never been a greater need for leaders willing to fight for lower taxes, greater transparency, and government accountability. It’s extremely unfortunate that Leader Jones chose not to stand with the people on those issues,” closed Craney.