Boston Globe

Francis Clifford Smith died at age 101 in a Connecticut nursing facility, having been convicted for the shooting of Grover Hart decades earlier. Over his lifetime, he was scheduled to face execution eight times but was spared on each occasion while maintaining his innocence. Despite developments like recanting witnesses and repudiating statements by George Lowden, Smith never received a new trial.

David Brooks of The Atlantic and Kimberly Atkins Stohr of the Boston Globe joined William Brangham to discuss the week in politics. Their discussion covered various topics, including the result of Wisconsin's Democratic primary, the status of 'woke' politics in America, and the stalemate between the U.S. and Iran.

Governor Maura Healey and GOP gubernatorial candidate Mike Minogue agreed to participate in separate general election debates this fall, with Healey committing to two October debates and Minogue to a debate hosted by Boston 25, GBH, and New England Public Media. GOP candidate Brian Shortsleeve confirmed participation in all debates but will first compete against Minogue in the September 1 GOP primary.

Phil Eng has served as both MBTA general manager and interim Department of Transportation secretary for nearly a year without the Healey administration confirming an active search for replacements. Eng's contract as MBTA general manager extends through 2028, and no job postings for the roles exist on state employment portals. Governor Maura Healey praised Eng's performance, and he has no set timeline to end his dual responsibilities.

A sewage spill in Haverhill caused by heavy rain highlights the need for infrastructure investment to prevent water contamination. The incident disrupted beach access and underscores the economic and public health impacts of failing systems, with Boston Harbor's past cleanup cited as a model for sustained investment.

Jeffrey C. MacDonald, a chef at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, allegedly beat his wife Emma MacDonald to death at the campus Hotel UMass. Police report he admitted using hands, feet, and objects to kill her, and he pleaded not guilty to first-degree murder and assault charges.