Shortsleeve: Bristol County Critical in Massachusetts Governor’s Race

With the Democratic Party seemingly on life support these days, political pundits are watching closely to see if a Republican can dislodge progressive Democrat Maura Healey from the Massachusetts Governor's office in next year's statewide election.

Maura Healey was elected in 2022 to replace Charlie Baker, the two-term Republican who opted not to seek a third four-year term. Many in the Republican Party viewed Baker as more of a RINO (Republican in Name Only), but he was all they had, along with his Lieutenant Governor, Karen Polito.

With Baker and Polito gone and Healey and her No. 2 Kim Driscoll in charge, there are currently no Republicans in statewide elected office in Massachusetts. No member of the Commonwealth's delegation to Washington is Republican.

Why Bristol County Matters in 2026

Democrats have a supermajority in both branches of the Massachusetts Legislature, although Republicans, such as Taunton Senator Kelley Dooner, are chipping away.

Republicans are expanding their numbers in Bristol County. The 2024 presidential election saw President Donald Trump earn 48 percent of the county vote compared to 36 percent in the state as a whole.

Acushnet, Berkley, Dighton, Fall River, Freetown, Raynham, Rehoboth, Seekonk, Somerset, Swansea and Westport voted for Trump.

Republican Momentum on the SouthCoast

Republican gubernatorial candidate Brian Shortsleeve says that "Bristol County is critical" in the 2026 governor's race. Shortsleeve strategist Holly Robichaud says that "Bristol County has been leading the way of change in Massachusetts."

"Bristol County is critical for our state's economy. New Bedford hosts a vital port that helps feed our country," Robichaud said.

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Robichaud points to Dooner's election and the election of other Republicans, such as Taunton Mayor Shaunna O'Connell, as proof of a gradual swing to the right in Bristol County.

New Bedford Mayor Jon Mitchell predicted the change several years ago during an appearance on my program.

"Bristol County deserves a proactive governor who will be a helping hand, not a hindrance," Robichaud said.

Shortsleeve, Mike Kennealy, and Michael Minogue will seek the support of Massachusetts Republicans at next April's party convention. If there is a primary election in September of 2026, the winner would face Healey in November of next year.