Mike Kennealy, a Republican and former secretary of housing and economic development under Governor Charlie Baker, has officially launched his campaign for governor of Massachusetts.
He becomes the first prominent GOP challenger to Democratic incumbent Maura Healey, who has announced plans to seek reelection in 2026. Kennealy's campaign emphasizes a need to change the state's direction, while Democrats have already begun linking him to former President Donald Trump. The race is expected to draw significant attention as it shapes up over the coming months.
Kennealy's entry signals a potential return to the more moderate Republican leadership style seen under Baker.
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Republican Mike Kennealy launches campaign for governor of Massachusetts
Incumbent Maura Healey has a Republican challenger in the 2026 race for governor of Massachusetts. Mike Kennealy, a former aide to Gov. Charlie Baker, released a video to launch his campaign Monday morning. He says Massachusetts is headed in the wrong direction.
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Mike Kennealy, former cabinet secretary for Gov. Baker, announces campaign for Mass. governor
Mike Kennealy, former cabinet secretary for Governor Charlie Baker, announced plans to run for governor of Massachusetts.Kennealy, a Republican, said in his
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Mike Kennealy, former economic secretary under Baker, launches Republican bid for governor
A Lexington Republican, Kennealy has been among a handful of potential GOP challengers eying a challenge of Governor Maura Healey, a first-term Democrat who said in February she will seek reelection.
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