Who’s running for governor in Massachusetts in 2026

Governor Maura Healey was first elected in 2022 and took office on January 5, 2023. She formally announced her intention to run for reelection in 2026.

Healey’s first term has been marked by ongoing debates over housing affordability, transportation, public safety, and the state’s migrant policy response — issues that her critics say show struggles in governance and provide openings for challengers.

At the same time, polling shows Healey still holding an advantage over potential challengers heading into 2026, even as voters express concerns about where the state is headed.

Republican challengers

Several Republicans have officially entered the race, each staking out their own priorities:

Mike Kennealy (Republican)

• Former Massachusetts Secretary of Housing and Economic Development under Gov. Charlie Baker.
• Campaign focuses on what he describes as frustration with rising costs, housing policy, energy prices, and state management under the current administration.
• Early polling shows him leading the GOP field ahead of the Republican primary.

Michael Minogue (Republican)

• Businessman and former CEO of medical device company Abiomed who has joined the Republican field.
• Public statements emphasize his experience in the private sector and the need for economic focus, though detailed policy platforms are still emerging.

Brian Shortsleeve (Republican)

• Former chief administrator and acting general manager of the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority.
• Positions himself as an organizational and management figure, highlighting operational experience.

These candidates are competing for the Republican nomination and may face off in a primary before the general election.

Poll

Other potential challengers and parties

• Ballotpedia lists additional Republican-aligned candidates such as Aaron Packard and an independent candidate, Muhammed Kokonezis-Hanino, as running for governor.
• A Democratic primary challenger appears less defined at this point, with Healey’s incumbency dominating that lane.

What comes next

The primary election in Massachusetts is scheduled for September 1, 2026, with the general election on November 3, 2026.

This governor’s race will shape policy direction on housing, transportation, public safety, and economic strategy for the next four years — and is likely to be a central political narrative in Massachusetts politics well before Election Day.