On Wednesday, Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey nominated her ex-girlfriend, Appeals Court Associate Justice Gabrielle Wolohojian, to the state’s highest court. The governor’s decision has sparked controversy, with some accusing her of cronyism and favoritism. Wolohojian, who joined the appeals court in 2008, reportedly began her relationship with Healey one year prior.
The Governor’s Council, consisting of eight members elected from districts in Massachusetts, will decide whether to confirm Wolohojian’s nomination. All eight of the council members are Democrats, which has raised concerns about impartiality in the confirmation process.
Healey and Wolohojian met while working at the law firm WilmerHale in the early 2000s. They were later profiled as a political power couple when Healey took office as attorney general in 2015. However, the two have since parted ways, and Healey is now in a relationship with her former chief deputy, Joanna Lydgate.
Critics have drawn comparisons between Healey’s nomination of Wolohojian and the actions of Fani Willis, the Fulton County prosecutor accused of appointing a romantic interest to handle the case against former President Donald Trump. However, Healey maintains that Wolohojian’s qualifications are the sole basis of her nomination.
There is no one more qualified or better prepared to serve on the Supreme Judicial Court than Justice Wolohojian, Healey said in a statement. She will bring over three decades of broad trial and appellate experience, including sixteen years on the Appeals Court.
Healey’s nomination of Wolohojian is her second to the Supreme Judicial Court. The council has already confirmed her other nominee, former state solicitor Bessie Dewar. If confirmed, Wolohojian would fill the seat left vacant by retiring Justice David Lowy.
Supreme Judicial Court justices in Massachusetts must retire at the age of 70. At 63, Wolohojian has several years of potential service ahead of her if confirmed.
Healey has not addressed her personal history with Wolohojian in her official statements, but she plans to take questions from reporters later in the day.
The controversy surrounding Healey’s nomination of her ex-girlfriend to the state’s highest court raises questions about integrity and transparency in the judicial appointment process. As the confirmation decision lies with the Governor’s Council, the public will be closely watching to see if they prioritize qualifications over personal relationships.
