Massachusetts Gov. Deval Patrick is crediting Occupy Boston protesters with reflecting the frustration that many feel about income inequality and whether the American dream is increasingly out of reach.

Patrick was commenting Monday for first time since the Occupy Boston encampment was dismantled over the weekend and dozens arrested. He also praised Mayor Thomas Menino’s handling of the protest movement’s decision to camp out on a slice of ground in downtown Boston.

Patrick, speaking to reporters in his office after returning from a trade mission Monday, said Menino showed "a really wonderful sense of balance."

Patrick also credited protesters for giving a voice to growing economic fears about "whether the American dream is up for grabs."

Patrick said he’s gone to business groups where he’s heard the same anxieties expressed. (AP)