New Bedford

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.

Massachusetts lost 60% of its reporters between 2013 and 2023, creating news deserts in many areas outside Boston and lower-income regions. The article discusses efforts to address these gaps through hyperlocal newsrooms and explores challenges in Spanish-language media, public funding models, and geographic disparities in news coverage.

Vineyard Wind 1, the first U.S. commercial-scale offshore wind project, is operational but not at full capacity. The project faces financial disputes with turbine supplier GE Vernova and landlord BP Hancock LLC over unpaid sums, while Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey celebrated its completion in New Bedford, emphasizing job creation and environmental benefits.

Gateway City leaders celebrated the one-year anniversary of the South Coast Rail service, which connects Taunton, Fall River, New Bedford, and Brockton to Boston. However, the project's second phase remains delayed due to lack of funding and planning, despite its promise of faster, electrified service. State officials prioritize maintaining the existing system over advancing the full build.