Massachusetts Gov. Deval Patrick delivered his final State of the Commonwealth address Tuesday night, talking about his legacy, but saying it was unfinished.
Patrick earned his loudest applause when he called for raising the minimum wage:
“To those who are reluctant to raise the minimum wage, I ask only that, before you resolve to oppose it, consider whether you could live on it,” he said.
Patrick spent much of his speech listing his accomplishments, saying he has helped municipal leaders, organized labor and business.
“We have eliminated or simplified over 210 outdated regulations, reduced the permitting time for state approvals from two years to less than 60 days,” he said.
He also promised to fix the Health Connector website and to strengthen the department of children and families:
“Time after time, when problems arise, we have kept our wits about us, gathered the facts soberly and thoughtfully and stepped up to find solutions, not just fault.”
Patrick said the state of the commonwealth is strong.
“I know there is unfinished business," he said. "But I also know that we are a more prosperous, more promising, more just commonwealth for more people today.”
Patrick concluded the speech by calling his time as governor the greatest honor of his professional life, and so much fun.
