In this episode of More Than Politics, State Senator Michael Moore sits down with Bob O’Koniewski, Executive Vice President of the Massachusetts State Automobile Dealers Association (MSADA), for an in-depth conversation about the rapidly changing landscape of the auto industry and public policy. The MSADA represents more than 400 franchise new car and truck dealerships across Massachusetts, advocating for the political and economic interests of automotive dealers throughout the Commonwealth.

Senator Moore and O’Koniewski discuss how federal and state regulations—from the Clean Air Act and California emissions standards to evolving electric vehicle mandates—are shaping the future of transportation. They explore the real-world impacts of these policies on consumers, dealerships, and the trucking industry, as well as the challenges of affordability, vehicle supply, and infrastructure. Key topics in this episode include:

• The history of emissions regulations and California’s role in setting standards

• Massachusetts adopting California vehicle emission rules

• Electric vehicle mandates and market demand

• The rising cost of vehicles and affordability challenges

• The impact of regulations on dealerships and truck fleets

• Hybrid vehicles, EV incentives, and policy inconsistencies

• The future of clean transportation technologies

Senator Moore and O’Koniewski also discuss how policymakers and industry leaders can work together to reduce emissions while keeping transportation practical and affordable for consumers.

From Beacon Hill to communities across the Commonwealth, More Than Politics brings you conversations that go beyond the headlines to explain what policies mean for you and your community.

In this powerful and deeply important episode of More Than Politics, State Senator Michael Moore sits down with former Worcester Juvenile Court Judge Carol Erskine and nationally recognized child welfare strategist Maureen Flatley to examine systemic failures within the child welfare system — and what must change to protect vulnerable children.

The conversation centers on the heartbreaking cases of Harmony Montgomery and David Almond, two children whose deaths exposed serious breakdowns in oversight, accountability, and interagency coordination between Massachusetts and neighboring states. Judge Erskine and Flatley outline how federal child welfare guidelines were ignored, how safeguards meant to protect children were bypassed, and why children with disabilities are particularly at risk within the system. The discussion also explores:

-The failure to follow federal permanency timelines

-The Interstate Compact (ICPC) and how it was waived

-Concerns about oversight within the Massachusetts Department of Children and Families (DCF)

-The need for transparency and accountability in the juvenile court system

-A newly filed request for a federal “pattern or practice” civil rights investigation

-Why systemic reform requires both state and federal action

This episode is a sobering look at where the system has failed — and a call to action to ensure that no child is overlooked again. This is more than politics. It’s about protecting children and demanding accountability.

State Senator Michael Moore visits New England Studios in Devens for an in-depth conversation on Massachusetts’ film and TV industry—and what it means for local jobs and the regional economy. Joined by General Manager Gary Crossen and IATSE Local 481 Business Manager Chris O’Donnell, Senator Moore explores how studio infrastructure and the state’s film tax credit helped grow a skilled local crew base, expand union job opportunities, and spark business “spin-off” benefits for everything from construction and set design to caterers, prop houses, and visual effects.

The discussion highlights major productions hosted in Massachusetts, the rise of episodic series work, and why keeping the Commonwealth competitive matters as other states and countries increase incentives. From workforce development to middle-skill careers with strong benefits, this episode breaks down why the film industry is more than entertainment—it’s an engine for good-paying jobs across the state.