Who are the donors behind (and against) the ballot questions in Massachusetts?

Editor's note: This is an excerpt from the WBUR Mass. Politics Newsletter. Politics. If you like what you read and want it in your inbox, sign up here.

This November, Massachusetts voters will take a direct stance on five potential bills. And as our recent polls show, these measures are among the most competitive races on this year's ballot.

Last week we also received new information about the people and groups who financially support the campaigns for and against each issue. Here's a breakdown:

Question 1: Examination of the legislation

• For: The initiative is led by accountant Diana DiZoglio, who has put over $100,000 of her own money into the cause. The campaign received support from progressive organizations such as Act on Mass as well as conservative groups such as Mass. Fiscal Alliance.
• Against: There is no formal opposition group, although House leaders have been vocal in their criticism of the measure. Many insiders believe lawmakers are waiting to launch a legal challenge to the question if it passes.

Question 2: Elimination of the MCAS requirement

• For: The Yes campaign has received nearly $3.5 million in in-kind donations, all from the Massachusetts Teachers Association. The state's largest teachers union pours that money into television advertising and voter outreach.
• Against: The opposition group has received over $1 million from business groups such as the Massachusetts High Technology Council and the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce. They are also supported by Education Reform Now, a national group that supports charter schools.

Question 3: A union for Uber and Lyft drivers

• For: The Yes campaign has received millions in donations and in-kind contributions from unions, particularly the Service Employee International Union.
• Against: There is no formal opposition campaign after Attorney General Andrea Campbell reached a $175 million settlement with Uber and Lyft that ensures higher minimum wages for their drivers.

Question 4: Legalization of psychedelics

• For: The Yes campaign is supported by the Washington, D.C.-based New Approach PAC, which also led legalization efforts in Oregon and Colorado. They have also received millions in individual donations, from small donations to large checks from philanthropists like TOMS Shoes founder Blake Mycoskie.
• Against: There is a formal opposition group did not raise or spend any money. The campaign is chaired by Dr. Anahita Dua, an MGH surgeon who opposes the legalization of psychedelics.

Question 5: Minimum wage for tipped employees

• For: One Fair Wage, which is behind the ballot measure, is a statewide group involved in minimum wage fights across the country, from California to Ohio. Numerous small donations have also been received from bartenders, teachers, lawyers and the founder of Boloco.
• Against: The “No” campaign is led by the Massachusetts Restaurant Association and has also received money from local restaurants (like Firefly's BBQ in Marlborough and Row 34 in Boston) and national chains like Applebee's, Texas Roadhouse and the owner of Davio's.

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