The Coalition for our Communities, the group opposing Question 1, said Tuesday night that Massachusetts voters cast their ballots against the measure because they understood the devastating effects it would have on the state budget.

With 79 percent of precincts reporting, Question 1, the ballot measure that would eliminate the state income tax, is trailing 69 percent to 31 percent. The Boston Globe has projected that the measure will fail.

Steve Crawford, a spokesman for the Coalition for our Communities, said Massachusetts voters cast their ballots "to support safe streets, fiscal responsibility, a quality healthcare system and vibrant communities."

Crawford said the Committee for Small Government, the group behind Question 1, appealed to voters' emotions.

"The other side tried to appeal to their fears," Crawford said. "And we decided to appeal to their reason...We're confident that the voters would see throught the promises of easy money made by the other side."