State Representative Bud Williams

In 2024, both Springfield's city council and school committee saw high-stakes debates and votes early on. How they navigated them, plus primary challenges and a drunk driving incident involving the Hampden County Sheriff, were some of the city's top political stories of the year. WAMC's Pioneer Valley Bureau Chief James Paleologopoulos spoke with Matt Szafranski, Editor-in-Chief of Western Mass. Politics & Insight, about how it all played out.

Two contested primaries in Hampden County, Massachusetts Tuesday ended with voters picking the incumbents. But one race was a squeaker.

Polls will be closing in a few hours in Massachusetts as the state’s primary elections come to an end. For most candidates in the Pioneer Valley, there wasn’t much of a contest, but it’s been a different story in the region’s biggest city.

Two of the most competitive primary races in the Pioneer Valley come to a head Tuesday. Both are Democratic primaries. One is the Hampden district race, with State Senator Adam Gomez fielding a challenge from Springfield City Councilor Malo Brown.Also in the Springfield area is the 11th Hampden House race, which pits Representative Bud Williams against local educator Johnnie Ray McKnight.WAMC’s Pioneer Valley Bureau Chief James Paleologopoulos spoke with Matt Szafranski, Editor-in-Chief of Western Mass. Politics & Insight about both races.

A forum in Springfield, Massachusetts meant to highlight new, state gun reforms shifted to the concerns of those affected by gun violence – and what they and local officials want to see addressed.

A flag raising, music and a visit from the governor highlighted Juneteenth celebrations in Springfield, Massachusetts.

The head of Massachusetts State Police was in Springfield this week, answering questions from locals while discussing how state troopers will assist local officers this summer.

Speakers warn of threats to Black history, civil rights

The caucus now has 25 members across both chambers

City Hall hosts Black American Heritage Flag raising ceremony for the 37th year