Poll Shows Struggling Approval for Mass. Gov. Maura Healey Amidst Future Election Speculation
A recent University of New Hampshire survey reveals that less than half of Massachusetts residents approve of Governor Maura Healey’s performance, with only 37% believing she deserves reelection in 2026. The survey, which included 907 residents, reported a 49% approval rate for Healey, down three percentage points from a February UMass Amherst poll.
Both Republican candidates challenging Healey, Brian Shortsleeve and Mike Kennealy, seized on the poll’s findings as evidence of a declining approval for the Democratic governor. Shortsleeve described the results as “devastating,” arguing that voters have lost confidence due to rising costs and job losses under Healey’s administration. A spokesperson for Kennealy echoed this sentiment, asserting Healey is vulnerable and that their internal polling aligns with the recent survey.
Despite the Republican critiques, Massachusetts Democratic Party Chair Steve Kerrigan expressed confidence in Healey’s reelection prospects, emphasizing her focus on critical issues such as housing, transportation, and education. Kerrigan highlighted that 78% of Democrats still support Healey, though only 39% of independents—critical voters in Massachusetts—shared positive views.
Concerns regarding U.S. Sen. Ed Markey, who is also up for reelection in 2026, emerged from the same poll, with 55% of respondents expressing apprehension about his age. Only 33% believe he deserves another term.
As Healey prepares for her second term campaign, upcoming months may prove pivotal. The poll indicates a challenging landscape, with a majority of independents and Republicans questioning both Healey’s and Markey’s reelection viability, setting the stage for a heated electoral battle ahead.
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