Report: Outgoing Patrick Makes Dozens Of Appointments

Gov. Deval Patrick is ensuring that his influence and legacy last long after he leaves office.

After facing months of criticism for failing to fill hundreds of vacancies on state boards and commissions, Patrick has named 150 people to panels that oversee everything from auto emissions to gambling policy.

Many of the last-minute appointments to the mostly unpaid positions include several former Patrick administration staffers and supporters.

Marty Linsky, a Harvard University instructor who helped handle appointments for Gov. William Weld, tells The Boston Globe that Patrick's moves are not unusual as outgoing governors frequently make appointments.

Patrick, a Democrat, gives way to Republican Gov.-elect Charlie Baker on Jan. 8.

Baker has little power to reverse the appointments that Patrick made before his final 15 days in office.