Why the Democratic primary is the only race for Mass. governor this year

Two media assumptions about the race to replace Gov. Charlie Baker are inconveniently incorrect. Trapped by reporting formulas and propelled by activists on both the left and the right, the media may falsely portray this statewide election as one in which Democratic primary voters will nominate the most ideologically left candidates, followed by a potentially competitive general election in a national climate favorable for Republicans.

The truth is less enticing: There will effectively be no general election, and the victorious Democratic candidates will be those perceived to be most moderate....