Scratch & Win: Part 2 - The Lottery Czar

Released January 29, 2025 by GBH News

Introduction: The Genesis of Massachusetts' Lottery

"Scratch & Win," a compelling narrative produced by the Peabody Award-winning team behind “The Big Dig,” delves into the intricate history of America's most successful lottery. In Part 2, titled "The Lottery Czar," host Ian Coss explores the pivotal role of State Treasurer Bob Crane in transforming the Massachusetts Lottery from a mere concept into a national gambling powerhouse.

Bob Crane: A Political Maverick

Bob Crane's Enigmatic Persona

Bob Crane emerges as the central figure in this episode, portrayed as a charismatic and resourceful leader. Described by host Ian Coss as "your classic Boston Irish pole" with "gleaming white hair" and a "huge smile" (00:00), Crane's influence extends beyond traditional political boundaries. Crane's political acumen is highlighted through an intriguing anecdote about his 1960 campaign for state representative in Brighton.

The Myth of the Infamous Stickers

Crane's legacy is often intertwined with the legend of the "infamous stickers." According to columnist Renee Loth, relayed by Secretary of State William Galvin (01:22), during a tight election race, Crane allegedly orchestrated a recount by heating ballots to remove opponent stickers, ensuring his victory. While Crane consistently denied this story (03:58), it underscores his reputation as a "team player" willing to "do whatever it took to win."

The Catholic Influence on Gambling Acceptance

Cultural Shift and Catholic Tolerance

The episode emphasizes the significant correlation between Catholic populations and the adoption of state lotteries. Lottery historian Jonathan Cohen's research is referenced, revealing that states with higher Catholic populations, like Massachusetts, were more inclined to establish lotteries (06:05). This cultural acceptance is juxtaposed against Protestant opposition, which historically viewed gambling as contrary to their values.

Bingo: The Church-Sanctioned Precursor

Linda Torregrossa, a lifelong resident of Revere, Massachusetts, illustrates how Catholic churches normalized gambling through bingo games (11:22). These games served as vital fundraising tools, embedding gambling into the community's fabric. Crane recognized the potential of such grassroots acceptance, leveraging it to pave the way for the state lottery.

Political Realignment: From Yankee Republicans to Catholic Democrats

Demographic Shifts and Political Power

Massachusetts experienced a significant demographic transformation post-World War II, with increasing Catholic populations bolstering the Democratic Party's influence (15:18). This shift diluted the previously dominant Yankee Republican control, creating fertile ground for Democratic initiatives like the state lottery.

Aaron O'Brien's Insights

Political scientist Aaron O'Brien explains that Massachusetts underwent an "equal and opposite shift" compared to the Southern states, with Republicans declining and Democrats strengthening their hold (17:30). This realignment was crucial in garnering the necessary legislative support for the lottery.

The Battle to Establish the Lottery

Legislative Maneuvering and Patronage Politics

In 1971, amidst Democratic majorities in both legislative chambers, the lottery bill—House Bill 5925—was introduced to Governor Francis Sargent's desk (23:14). The Democrats, adept in patronage politics, saw the lottery as a means to control the burgeoning illegal gambling industry and distribute patronage jobs.

Bob Crane's Strategic Positioning

As the chair of the state Democratic Party and State Treasurer, Crane held significant influence. His office managed 18% of the state budget and 270 employees, making him a pivotal figure in the lottery's administration (24:21). Despite Crane's initial reluctance, the legislature pushed him into the role, recognizing his ability to blend political savvy with entertainment.

Patronage and Political Capital

Crane's Network and Influence

Crane's adept use of patronage is evident through his longstanding relationships within the state legislature. Offers of interest-free loans and support during financial crunches cultivated loyalty among legislators, ensuring their backing for initiatives like the lottery (36:15).

Legislative Overriding and Party Loyalty

The Democratic Party's strong patronage system meant that dissenters faced repercussions, such as loss of committee positions. This ensured that members remained aligned with party directives, particularly during critical votes like the lottery override (44:32).

The Climactic Passage of the Lottery Bill

Governor Sargent's Veto and Legislative Override

Governor Francis Sargent, a stereotypical Yankee Republican, initially opposed the lottery, reflecting his conservative values. However, the Democratic-controlled legislature sought to override his veto. The process was fraught with tension, as key Democrats were pressured to support the bill.

The Role of Kevin Harrington

Senate President Kevin Harrington, a towering figure at 6'10", played a crucial role in securing the necessary votes. His political maneuvering, coupled with pressure tactics, ensured that defections occurred among hesitant Democrats (40:15).

Dramatic Roll Call Vote

The climax unfolded during a Senate roll call vote, marked by the persistent ringing of a bell (47:13). As votes were tallied, strategic interventions, including the dramatic entrance and vote of Blackie Burke, culminated in the lottery bill passing despite Governor Sargent's opposition (50:16).

Crane's Victory

Crane hailed the passage as a "great victory for the Democratic Party" and a testament to party loyalty. The establishment of the lottery marked a significant consolidation of Democratic power and the state's entry into the legal gambling arena (50:49).

Bob Crane: The Entertainer Treasurer

Blending Politics with Entertainment

Beyond his political prowess, Crane's background in vaudeville and his role as an entertainer were instrumental in the lottery's success. He viewed the lottery not just as a revenue generator but as a product to be marketed with flair and excitement (29:05).

The Treasury Notes and Public Engagement

Crane's creation of the Treasury Notes, a singing group, exemplifies his unique approach to governance. These public performances humanized his office and endeared him to the populace, reinforcing the lottery's image as a community-focused initiative (27:17).

Legacy of Innovation

Crane's understanding that the lottery must be engaging and user-friendly led to innovations like the first scratch ticket in 1974 (54:36). His dual role as a political leader and entertainer ensured the lottery's enduring popularity.

Conclusion: The Enduring Impact of Bob Crane

Bob Crane's multifaceted approach—melding political strategy with entertainment—transformed the Massachusetts Lottery into a success story. His ability to navigate complex patronage systems, foster loyalty, and present the lottery as a fun and aspirational enterprise ensured its longevity and prosperity. "Scratch & Win: Part 2 - The Lottery Czar" offers an illuminating look into the confluence of politics, culture, and innovation that shaped one of America's most enduring gambling institutions.

Notable Quotes

• Ian Coss: "Bob Crane is your classic Boston Irish pole. Gleaming white hair, gleaming white teeth, huge, huge smile." (00:00)

• William Galvin: "He said, you know, it's not about the money, it's about the dreams." (29:05)

• Bob Crane: "I can watch my daughter when she comes. I can watch her cards." (11:35)

• Aaron O'Brien: "An equal and opposite shift has happened here in Massachusetts." (17:30)

• William Galvin: "Tip O'Neill once told me that one Christmas he put 1,000 people on at the post office to work part time because the post office needed people at Christmas." (20:52)

• Ian Coss: "The lottery was the last gasp of that cultural struggle between the Yankee Republicans and the Catholic Democrats." (18:05)

• Bob Crane: "He was not a banker." (25:47)

• William Galvin: "The patronage feature was very important to members of the legislature of that time." (18:54)

• Ian Coss: "For Democrats in particular, that is exactly the kind of person you want in charge of your lottery." (04:23)

Credits and Acknowledgements

• Host and Scriptwriter: Ian Coss
• Executive Producer: Devin Maverick Robins
• Producers: Isabel Hibbard and Ian Coss
• Story Editor: Lacy Roberts
• Editorial Advisor: Jen McKim
• Fact Checkers: Ryan Alderman and Isabel Hibbard
• Scoring and Music Supervision: Ian Coss
• Graphic Design: Bill Miller
• Project Manager: Meiqian He

Special thanks to Mary Lou Crane for sharing personal stories and archival materials, and to contributors Barney Frank, Kenny Young, George Regan, William Young, Al Kramer, Jack Murphy, and George Sacco for their insights.

For more information on the series and full transcripts, visit gbhnews.org/scratchandwin. Additional content and archival footage are available on the GBH YouTube channel.

This summary encapsulates the key discussions, insights, and narratives presented in "Scratch & Win: Part 2 - The Lottery Czar." By intertwining political strategy, cultural shifts, and personal anecdotes, the episode offers a comprehensive understanding of the Massachusetts Lottery's origins and Bob Crane's instrumental role in its success.