Scratch & Win: Part 7 - The Dirtiest Race in the Commonwealth
Release Date: March 5, 2025
Host: Ian Coss
Produced by GBH News

Introduction

In "Part 7: The Dirtiest Race in the Commonwealth" of the Scratch & Win series, host Ian Coss delves into the tumultuous 1986 Massachusetts State Treasurer election. This episode uncovers the intricate web of patronage, political maneuvering, and media battles that defined one of the most contentious races in the state's history. Through interviews, archival footage, and expert analysis, the episode paints a vivid picture of how Bob Crane, the incumbent treasurer, faced unprecedented challenges from Joyce Hampers, a determined Republican challenger.

Background: Bob Crane and the Massachusetts Lottery

Bob Crane, elected to an unprecedented five terms as Massachusetts State Treasurer, was the driving force behind the state's burgeoning lottery system. Crane's administration was characterized by extensive patronage, where jobs were often awarded based on political connections rather than merit. This system ensured loyalty and maintained the lottery's profitability, positioning it as America's most successful state lottery.

Notable Quote:
Frank Phillips [02:34]: "There are people cutting corners, people doing favors, patronage jobs..."

The 1986 Treasurer Race: Emergence of Resistance

The 1986 election cycle brought a significant shift as Joyce Hampers emerged as a Republican candidate committed to reforming the entrenched patronage system within the lottery. Hampers, a former state revenue commissioner, launched a campaign centered on transparency and ethical governance, directly challenging Crane's long-standing practices.

Notable Quote:
Kylie Lowe [20:08]: "In Massachusetts, Robert Crane was one of those last practitioners of the old ways."

Patronage and Its Impact

Crane's administration employed over 400 individuals, a number significantly higher than in other states. Approximately half of these employees were hired through patronage. This system fostered a tight-knit "family" within the lottery, where employees felt a strong sense of loyalty and responsibility towards Crane and the organization.

Notable Quote:
Frank Phillips [13:36]: "And there is nothing wrong with patronage. Patronage, in my opinion, is giving a job to someone who has been sent to you..."

Campaign Strategies: Attack Ads and Positive Messaging

Hampers capitalized on growing public dissatisfaction with patronage by highlighting statistics that revealed Crane's lottery staff was disproportionately large and overwhelmingly white. Her campaign invested heavily in media blitzes, including a pivotal attack ad on September 17th, which significantly leveled the playing field by bringing Crane under intense scrutiny.

Notable Quote:
Frank Phillips [21:05]: "This is a $1.6 billion business. You don't run it with hacks."

Signature Gate Scandal

A turning point in the campaign was the revelation of the "Signature Gate" scandal. Hampers accused Crane of illicitly inflating his income to secure a mortgage for a luxury condominium. Initially, Hampers denied involvement in signing off on a controversial settlement, but investigative reporting by Frank Phillips exposed discrepancies. This led to the discovery that Crane had indeed signed the settlement, damaging Hampers' credibility and shifting the campaign's momentum.

Notable Quote:
Kylie Lowe [35:17]: "It was one of those things in a campaign... Little things get blown up into major debates."

Debates and Media Influence

The debates between Crane and Hampers became battlegrounds for personal attacks and ethical questions. The intimate setting of the debates underscored the intense rivalry, with Hampers persistently challenging Crane's integrity while Crane struggled to effectively counteract her accusations. The media played a crucial role, with both candidates leveraging television and print to sway public opinion.

Notable Quote:
Frank Phillips [29:24]: "The debate setting... was very intimate."

Election Outcome and Aftermath

Despite the fierce campaigning and scandals, Bob Crane secured reelection with a decisive victory. Hampers' challenges ultimately backfired as the "Signature Gate" scandal diminished her standing. Crane's transparent release of his financial documents further mitigated the damage, showcasing his commitment to clarity. The episode reflects on how Crane's charm and effective use of the lottery's success overshadowed the ethical concerns raised during the campaign.

Notable Quote:
Kylie Lowe [43:55]: "Crane could not ignore the challenge for long."

Reflections on Patronage and Political Accountability

The episode concludes with a contemplation on the decline of patronage in modern politics. While patronage fostered a sense of accountability and loyalty, its decline has coincided with increased political polarization and weakened party discipline. Justice Antonin Scalia's dissent in a landmark patronage case is highlighted, suggesting that the absence of patronage may have inadvertently contributed to the current fragmented political landscape.

Notable Quote:
Ian Coss [46:01]: "It was the ultimate form of accountability. You deliver for me, I deliver for you."

Conclusion and Legacy

"Part 7: The Dirtiest Race in the Commonwealth" not only recounts a pivotal election but also serves as a reflection on the broader implications of patronage in politics. The legacy of Bob Crane and the Massachusetts Lottery underscores the complex interplay between political power, ethical governance, and public trust. As the series progresses, listeners are invited to explore how these historical dynamics continue to influence contemporary gambling and governmental practices.

Notable Quote:
Kylie Lowe [48:55]: "That's next time."

Credits and Acknowledgments

The episode was expertly produced by Isabel Hibbard and Ian Coss, with contributions from story editor Lacy Roberts and editorial advisor Jen McKim. Special thanks were extended to Christy George, former WGBH reporter, and the Boston Public Library for their invaluable support.

Notable Quote:
Kylie Lowe [49:37]: "Thank you."

For more detailed insights and access to full transcripts, visit gbhnews.org/scratchandwin. Additional archival footage can be viewed on the GBH YouTube channel.

This detailed summary encapsulates the key discussions, insights, and conclusions from "Part 7: The Dirtiest Race in the Commonwealth," providing listeners with a comprehensive understanding of the episode's exploration of political patronage and its enduring impact on Massachusetts politics.