The chief executive officer is the governor, elected for a four-year term. This is pretty remarkable when you consider that many people view Massachusetts as a Democratic political stronghold. The legislature, called the General Court , consists of the Senate and the House of Representatives. The judiciary is headed by the Supreme Judicial Court, consisting of seven justices. Despite its industrial orientation and the location of corporate headquarters for many businesses in the state, Massachusetts is a popular state for visitors.
Tourism is a major industry.
The state's scenic and recreational attractions are many, ranging from the low, sandy beaches of Cape Cod to the wooded Berkshire Hills of the west. All along the coastline dotted with fine harbors swimming, boating, and fishing are popular. Inland, the areas along the Mohawk Trail , which have long been a magnet for artists, are a summer and winter playground. Many visitors are drawn to the historic and cultural richness of Massachusetts. Through- out the state, and especially in Boston and the other coastal cities and towns, the past is preserved for the future in historic buildings , monuments , museums , and libraries .