Sen. Peter Durant, a Spencer Republican, mentioned he has determined in opposition to working for governor in 2026 after mulling over a possible marketing campaign for the previous three months.
Durant, who received a particular election in 2023 to flip a Central Massachusetts Senate seat, mentioned he made the choice to not launch a marketing campaign after discussing the concept together with his spouse and different Republican candidates who’re both contemplating a bid or have formally declared a candidacy.
“I think there’s a really good chance here. I think Maura Healey is very vulnerable. I’m not sure that it’s that clear (for me) with a primary, and then moving quickly into an election after that,” he mentioned. “There’s a massive amount of fundraising. It’s part of the puzzle. It kind of all adds up.”
Durant, 60, had slightly below $7,000 in his marketing campaign account as of the tip of April, in response to marketing campaign finance information. He raised a complete of $2,568 in February, March, and April, the information confirmed.
Durant was amongst a handful of conservatives who had envisioned themselves difficult Gov. Maura Healey, a first-term Democrat from Arlington, within the 2026 statewide elections.
Mike Kennealy, a former secretary below Gov. Charlie Baker, launched his personal marketing campaign for governor final month.
Brian Shortsleeve, a enterprise capitalist and former MBTA govt, and Republican mega-donor Michael Minogue are each contemplating working to be the state’s subsequent chief govt.
Durant mentioned he plans to run for reelection to his Senate seat and continues to be weighing whether or not he desires to endorse a Republican candidate for governor.
“We’ve got three good people who are either running or considering running,” Durant informed the Herald on the State Home. “I think any one of them would make a fantastic governor right now. But we’re going to take a look and see how we can play an effective role, how we can help leverage the best we can for Worcester County.”
