MOA Wrapped: The Five Most-Read Blogs of 2024

As 2024 comes to a close, it gives us an opportunity to look back on a year of impactful discussions and insightful analyses since the launch of the Mass Opportunity Alliance (MOA). This year, our efforts to advocate for economic growth, fiscal responsibility, and commonsense policies that help Massachusetts’ competitiveness have resonated widely. 

Here are the top 5 blogs of the year:

1. Massachusetts Voters Deliver a Message of Moderation

November 14, 2024

We explored the results of the November elections, where Massachusetts voters showed a clear preference for moderate, pragmatic solutions to improve the overall economic health of the Commonwealth. With high taxes and high cost of living in Massachusetts, Bay Staters voted with their wallets in mind. This trend reflects a growing desire for stability and sensible governance. Read more

2. Turkey Troubles: What Could Be Driving Up the Cost of Thanksgiving in Massachusetts?

November 21, 2024

In this timely post, we examined the high costs of hosting Thanksgiving in Massachusetts. We found that the average cost of a Thanksgiving dinner in the state is significantly higher than the national average due to factors such as inflation, high sales tax on alcohol, and taxes on dining out. Luckily, Massachusetts has a sales tax exemption for groceries which helps keep some of the costs in check. Read more

3. Are Taxes Driving Top Athletes Away From Massachusetts?

November 1, 2024

We discussed the potential impact of the income surtax on Boston’s beloved sports teams. The post warned that increased tax burdens could drive top talent and investment away, jeopardizing the future success of our sports franchises that have given Boston the nickname of Titletown. We called for tax reforms to ensure Massachusetts remains a competitive state both in sports and other economic opportunities for Bay Staters. Read more

4. Standardized Tests Keep Mass. Schools Competitive

October 2, 2024

We highlighted the value of Massachusetts public schools as among the best in the nation, outlining how the Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (MCAS) helped Mass. make significant improvements in education. Ahead of the November election, we pointed out that the MCAS graduation requirement does not prohibit a significant number of students from receiving a high school diploma. Emphasizing the importance of high educational standards in Massachusetts, MCAS also helps Bay State students prepare for other important standardized tests. Read more

5. Data Dive: Massachusetts Taxes are Top Concern for Young, Hispanic, and Suburban Residents

September 25, 2024

MOA’s in-depth analysis of how tax policies impact diverse demographics highlighted the need for tax reforms to support economic growth. Young professionals and minority groups are particularly sensitive to high tax rates, which can influence their decisions to stay or leave the Bay State. Read more

Conclusion

As we look forward to 2025, we remain dedicated to our mission of fostering economic growth, fiscal responsibility, and policies that help stem outmigration and better Massachusetts’ competitiveness. Thank you for your continued support and engagement. Here’s to another year of fighting for Massachusetts’ prosperity and economic opportunities!