Gov. Healey engaged with Trump official on cooperation

Governor Maura Healey recently visited Washington, D.C., where she had significant meetings as part of her agenda. During this trip, she spoke with James Blair, a top official in the Trump administration, on February 22. This meeting took place during the National Governors Association's winter meeting. Healey's spokesperson stated that she requested the meeting to discuss potential collaborations between Massachusetts and the federal government. Topics included artificial intelligence, energy, and transportation. This engagement, however, followed a tense encounter Trump had with Maine Governor Janet Mills about federal funding related to transgender athletes, which Healey found unsettling. In recent weeks, Healey has increased her criticism of Trump due to federal funding cuts affecting states. She expresses concern about the administration’s decisions impacting areas like medical research. Besides her meeting with Blair, Healey spoke with American Airlines CEO Robert Isom shortly after a tragic collision involving an American Airlines flight and a military helicopter that resulted in multiple fatalities. Healey reached out to offer her condolences to those affected, including victims from Massachusetts. Additionally, Healey communicated with Air Force Lt. Gen. Donna D. Shipton on February 28. Their discussion focused on military defense and the Massachusetts Military Asset and Security Strategy Task Force, which oversees military installations in the state. Governor Healey's efforts reflect her commitment to collaborating with both federal officials and supporting state interests.