Gov downplays decision to not meet with VP Pence

Gov. Charlie Baker downplayed his decision to hold to his original schedule and not meet with Vice President Mike Pence in Boston.

The Herald reported yesterday that Baker was snubbing the vice president, who was in Boston last night to meet with local Republicans at a fundraiser for Trump Victory, a joint venture of the Republican National Committee and the Trump campaign. Baker told reporters yesterday that he “reached out” to Pence’s office to inform the vice president’s aides that he would not be attending and that they understood his reasons.

Baker’s schedule called for him to attend a chamber of commerce dinner in Westport. But some local Republicans voiced annoyance and disgust, noting Baker’s frequent antiTrump stances.

The fundraiser at the Langham Hotel, which was expected to raise about $500,000, was closed to the press.

When first asked Monday about Pence’s visit, Baker said he had not been aware of the event ahead of time and had already committed to an appearance in southeastern Massachusetts.

Baker noted he met with Pence during a recent National Governors Association meeting.

Baker, who did not vote for President Trump in 2016 and has been a vocal critic, denied he was trying to send any message to the administration.