Mike Kennealy Targets Affordability in Governor’s Race Against Healey
In a recent interview with WBZ-TV, Mike Kennealy emerged as a significant Republican contender in the 2026 Massachusetts gubernatorial race, positioning himself as a forward-looking candidate focused on state-specific issues rather than national politics, particularly those of former President Donald Trump. Kennealy, who served as Secretary of Housing and Economic Development under Governor Charlie Baker, prioritized affordability, emphasizing housing, energy, and taxes as the key areas of concern for Massachusetts residents.
Kennealy criticized the current Healey administration’s strategy on housing, arguing that it fails to adequately address the state’s pressing housing shortage, which he claims is a critical factor affecting affordability. He noted that during the Baker administration, efforts were made to increase housing production, and he believes the Healey administration has taken the wrong approach. Kennealy expressed particular discontent with the enforcement of the MBTA Communities Act, designed to encourage multi-family housing development in cities served by public transportation. He argued that the Healey administration’s tactics have become overly confrontational rather than cooperative, potentially hindering progress.
In addition to housing, Kennealy tackled issues such as rising energy costs and what he views as increased tax burdens due to Beacon Hill’s policies. He suggested that reforms like the Housing Choice initiative, which simplifies zoning changes, could pave the way for more effective housing development.
Kennealy also touched on the migrant crisis and concerns about the outflow of young workers from Massachusetts, positing that these issues further underscore the need for an effective affordability agenda. As the race heats up, Kennealy’s focus on local policies and concerns could resonate with voters eager for change.
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