A recent Suffolk University/Boston Globe poll reveals that a majority of Massachusetts voters perceive the state’s condition as having worsened over the past four years, yet they remain largely supportive of incumbent Governor Maura Healey as the November 3 election approaches.
The survey, conducted among 500 likely general election voters, indicates that 59 percent plan to vote for Healey, a Democrat seeking a second term, while 36 percent back her Republican challenger, Michael Minogue. Less than 4 percent of respondents remain undecided, even after two debates between the candidates, signaling limited opportunities for Minogue to expand his support.
Minogue, a former Abiomed executive, has criticized the state’s cost of living and governance during his campaign but has yet to gain significant traction among voters. Despite widespread dissatisfaction—most respondents believe Massachusetts has deteriorated in recent years—this discontent has not translated into a stronger challenge to the incumbent.
The poll also found that while over half of those surveyed feel the state is on the right track in a broader sense, a much smaller portion—just 15 percent—believe life in Massachusetts is now better than four years ago. This suggests a disconnect between general optimism and the perception of current quality of life.
Healey’s hold on the governor’s race appears firm, reflecting broader trends in Massachusetts politics where Democratic incumbents typically maintain commanding leads over Republican and less well-known candidates for statewide offices.
With the election less than two weeks away, the data suggests voters are hesitant to switch leadership despite their reservations, indicating that factors such as party loyalty and candidate familiarity may be outweighing concerns over the state’s recent challenges.
