Senate Republicans to block MA budget bill

Gov. Deval Patrick says his Republican challengers have reached "a new low" after lieutenant governor candidate Richard Tisei suggested there could be a post-election tax increase in Massachusetts.

In a statement Tuesday, the Democratic incumbent said Charles Baker's running mate "makes baseless insinuations" about the budget.

He calls them "both ridiculous and irresponsible."

Tisei is vowing to block action on a $420 million supplemental budget bill until Patrick explains the reasons behind the spending and whether he will need more cash this year.

Tisei says he's concerned the state's true financial condition is being concealed until after the Nov. 2 general election. And he says he's hearing talk - though he won't say from whom - about a potential post-election tax increase.