Massachusetts Secretary of State William F. Galvin, who holds the distinction of being both the longest-serving secretary of state in the state’s history and the longest-tenured statewide elections official in the United States, is actively preparing for upcoming electoral and census events, including the 2026 general election, the 2028 presidential race, and the 2030 census.
Galvin, who has overseen Massachusetts elections since 1995, has voiced concerns about proposed changes to the census process initiated during the Trump administration, which he argues could result in the exclusion of millions of immigrants, some legally residing in the country. Such changes, he warns, could have far-reaching implications for congressional apportionment and district boundaries across the nation.
In addition to his focus on census issues, Galvin is working to expand voter access within Massachusetts. Among his priorities is supporting a ballot measure that would permit Election Day voter registration, a move aimed at increasing participation and easing barriers to the polls.
Throughout his extensive tenure, Galvin has navigated various challenges, including criticism that he managed his office with excessive personal control. Nonetheless, he has been instrumental in implementing significant election reforms and maintaining the integrity of the voting process in Massachusetts.
While there has been speculation about whether Galvin will retire, he has indicated that he plans to seek re-election in 2026 but does not intend to run beyond the 2030 cycle. He cites ongoing threats to election security and the accuracy of the census as key motivators for his continued service.
