Governor Maura Healey has expressed her deep gratitude to Paige Scott Reed, the now-former Chief Legal Counsel, who played a pivotal role in the Governor's legal team since her appointment in December 2022. In a statement obtained by Mass.gov, Healey lauded Reed for her contributions, particularly noting her efforts on clemency and the nomination of judges, saying, "She leaves an enduring legacy – from the lives that have been transformed because of her work on clemency to the dozens of judges she helped nominate to the bench whose decisions will shape our state for generations to come."
Reed's successor, Jesse M. Boodoo, steps up from his role as Deputy Chief Legal Counsel, bringing his record of bringing people together to efficiently get results. Known as a trusted advisor within the Healey-Driscoll administration, Boodoo has been involved in supervising legal departments, overseeing major litigation, and aiding to author legislation. "I'm honored to be appointed Chief Legal Counsel by Governor Healey and Lieutenant Governor Driscoll," Boodoo told Mass.gov, emphasizing his commitment to build upon Reed’s work "to faithfully represent the Governor’s Office, nominate highly qualified judges to the courts and advance clemency recommendations that are rooted in equity and fairness."
During her tenure, Paige Scott Reed left an indelible mark on the Massachusetts judicial and executive landscape. She is recognized as the first African American woman to helm the Governor’s legal office, one who skillfully shepherded a diverse array of judges through the appointment process. Her historic work with the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities underscored her reputation for crafting effective legislation, aimed at addressing affordability and transformation in housing. Boodoo, who holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Brown University and a Juris Doctor from Boston University School of Law, now carries the mantle, poised to influence future legal and legislative developments within the administration.
Scott Reed's departure is not only a change for the Governor's legal office but also a shift for the team she established—a team known for its diversity and legal excellence. However, the transition appears to be seamless with Boodoo at the helm, reflecting the administration's dedication to maintaining the momentum she created. Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll, in a sentiment echoed from a Mass.gov release, remarked that both Reed and Boodoo have led with positive impacts, stating, "We thank Paige for her outstanding service and wish her luck going forward. We are excited to see all that Jesse will accomplish as Chief Legal Counsel."
