Voter guide to races for governor, Senate, Congress in Sept. 1 primary

Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...

The primary races for governor, U.S. Senate, and the U.S. House 9th District are on the Sept. 1 ballot. The Boston Globe is sharing its guide to the candidates with The Light’s readers to help you navigate the primary ballot.

Here, find information about candidates running in the contested Republican state primary for governor and Democratic primaries for U.S. Senate and the 9th congressional district. Each candidate was sent a Globe questionnaire; their responses are included below, with some edits for clarity and length.

Early in-person voting runs Aug. 22 to Aug. 28. After the primaries Sept. 1, stay tuned for an updated guide covering the November state election.

Governor

Two Republicans are competing for the nomination to challenge incumbent Gov. Maura Healey in November: Michael Roger Minogue, a former chief executive of a medical device company, and Brian Shortsleeve, a venture capitalist and one-time MBTA executive.

Michael Roger Minogue

Town/city: Hamilton. Age: 59. Party: Republican.

What are your top three priorities should you win office?

Accountability: I will support the audit of the Legislature that 72% of voters supported and the entire budget, stop overspending, and provide transparency on the one-party system.

Affordability: I will cut taxes and spending by eliminating waste and fraud; cut energy utility fees on day 1; invest in safe, clean energy with natural gas pipelines and nuclear; reduce stretch codes and permitting regulations; and cancel unfunded mandates like the MBTA Communities Act.

Opportunity: I will grow jobs by retaining and recruiting entrepreneurs and businesses; cut government red tape; improve access to healthcare; expand community-based mental healthcare; and give parents choice on education by opting in to the Federal Scholarship Tax Credit.

Keeping Communities Safe: Massachusetts will not be a sanctuary state, and illegal immigrants will not have a free right to shelter. I will coordinate with law enforcement, protect fair and safe sports for girls, and protect the Second Amendment.

Why are you best suited for this role?

I am best suited for this role because of my proven results in the military, business, and nonprofit space. I am a leader with integrity, compassion, and common sense.

My military service, starting at West Point, was recognized with a Bronze Star earned in combat in Desert Storm. In business, I am the only candidate who has built a company and been a CEO for 19 years. I owned every decision and developed the world’s smallest heart pumps, helping save hundreds of thousands of lives and create thousands of jobs. For over a decade, the Minogue Foundation has dedicated time and money to support causes for veterans, children, education, and healthcare. My purpose is to help working people and families who struggle to pay their bills.

What do voters want most out of their governor?

I will be a new kind of governor and a public servant that solves problems and works with everyone. This is what I believe most voters want in a governor.

The politicians have been failing us, and we are heading down the wrong path. The status quo is not working: 2.3 million people — 72 percent of voters — supported the legislative audit ballot question because they want accountability, and our governor will not help enforce the will of the people. We are last in the nation in private job growth and second-worst in debt per person. People are leaving Massachusetts because Maura Healey is overspending, overtaxing, and overregulating. Voters want the audit done, lower energy costs, fewer taxes, and to be able to afford healthcare. Voters want a governor that can solve these problems and put the people before the party politics.

What’s the one spot you would tell visitors they shouldn’t miss in Massachusetts?

One of the things I love about Massachusetts is our coastline. Living on the North Shore, I am blessed to spend time on the water and in the coastal towns that make our state special. Whether out on a boat, fishing, or waterskiing, there is nothing like a summer day at the beach or on the water.

Our coastline is also home to one of the hardest-working industries in our Commonwealth. From lobstermen in Gloucester to scallopers in New Bedford, generations of Massachusetts fishermen have helped feed our country while supporting local families, businesses, and communities. They represent the grit, determination, and work ethic that define our state.

No visit to Massachusetts is complete without enjoying our incredible seafood. We are fortunate to have outstanding restaurants across the commonwealth. Two of my favorites are Tonno in Gloucester and I Pazzi in Danvers, which have some of the best food around.

Back to top ↑

Brian Shortsleeve

Town/city: Barnstable. Age: 54. Party: Republican.

What are your top three priorities should you win office?

My top priority is making Massachusetts affordable again. Families are leaving because government keeps getting bigger, more expensive, and less accountable.

That’s why my plan is simple: Audit. Cut. Grow.

First, audit every agency to expose waste, fraud, and abuse. I did it at the MBTA, where we uncovered millions in unnecessary spending. Government should be run with the same discipline families and businesses use every day.

Then, cut unnecessary spending, lower taxes, get rid of the bogus fees on our utility bills, and roll back regulations that make it harder to build homes, create jobs, and grow a business.

If we can get the two first things right, it allows us to get the economy growing in Massachusetts by creating an environment where employers invest, workers stay, and families can afford to build their future here.

Why are you best suited for this role?

I’m a Massachusetts native. I grew up here, built my career here, raised my family here, and I want my three boys to have the same opportunities I had.

My background is different from a career politician’s. The Marine Corps taught me discipline, accountability, and mission-first leadership. I spent decades in the private sector helping small businesses grow because I understand that’s the backbone of our economy. Most people in Massachusetts work for small businesses, and I know what it takes to help them succeed.

Then I brought that experience to state government. I’m the only candidate in this race who has actually audited a state agency; uncovered waste, fraud, and abuse; and turned around a broken organization at the MBTA. And when I was done I left, because I had no desire to become a lifelong bureaucrat. I don’t just talk about fixing government. I’ve done it. That’s exactly how I’ll lead as governor.

What do voters want most out of their governor?

Voters are looking for a governor who is focused on Massachusetts, not Washington. They’re tired of the political theater, the grandstanding, and governing for headlines instead of results.

People want someone they can trust to solve problems, not score political points. They want a governor who will hold state government accountable, spend their tax dollars responsibly, and wake up every day focused on making Massachusetts more affordable and competitive.

I think a lot of people miss the results-oriented approach we saw under Governor Charlie Baker. It wasn’t about ideology or constant political fights. It was about rolling up your sleeves, fixing problems, and delivering results. That’s the kind of governor I’ll be: pragmatic, accountable, and operate with a sense of urgency in making life better for the people of Massachusetts.

What’s the one spot you would tell visitors they shouldn’t miss in Massachusetts?

The Cape, without question. I’m probably biased, but I don’t think there’s a more quintessential Massachusetts experience than spending a summer week on the Cape with your family.

Some of my favorite memories are the simple ones: my wife, Liz, the boys, and I packing up for the beach, grabbing ice cream after dinner, and just enjoying time together. Those are the moments that matter most.

As governor, I want to preserve the Massachusetts that gave my family those memories and make sure the next generation can build their own. Every family should be able to afford to live here, raise their kids here, and enjoy everything our commonwealth has to offer. That’s ultimately why I’m running.

Back to top ↑

U.S. Senate

Edward J. Markey is seeking a third full six-year term in the Senate, and for the second time in as many cycles, faces a Democratic challenger from within the state’s congressional delegation. Rep. Seth Moulton is vying for the Senate seat 12 years after he first won his House seat by knocking off a different longtime Democrat incumbent. The winner will face Republican John Deaton in November.

Edward J. Markey

Town/city: Malden. Age: 80. Party: Democrat.

What are your top three priorities should you win office?

My top priority is making life more affordable. That means lowering the cost of prescription drugs, strengthening support for caregivers and healthcare workers, and finally passing Medicare for All.

Second, I will continue leading on climate action as an economic strategy — creating good-paying union jobs, lowering household utility bills, and building a clean-energy innovation economy that keeps America competitive. I wrote the Green New Deal, and got the federal offshore manufacturing tax credits to make Vineyard Wind possible and proof that clean energy works for Massachusetts to lower utility costs.

Third, I will defend the rights and freedoms under attack — reproductive freedom, voting rights, LGBTQ+ equality, and protection against discrimination. At a moment when Donald Trump and MAGA Republicans are targeting our neighbors and dismantling basic protections, Massachusetts needs a senator they can count on to stand up for their values, and fight back.

Why are you best suited for this role?

I don’t just talk about change. I write the laws that deliver it. I have secured tens of billions of dollars for Massachusetts to modernize our infrastructure, create good-paying union jobs, expand clean energy, and strengthen our communities. I wrote the Green New Deal, the Transgender Bill of Rights, and landmark laws to protect consumers, lower prescription drug costs, strengthen workers’ rights, and take on Big Tech.

In the Senate, I have led the charge fighting back against Trump and the MAGA agenda, defending our democracy, protecting fundamental rights, and holding the powerful accountable in Congress and the courts.

I live the values I legislate. I do not trade stocks, invest in private equity, or take corporate PAC money. Public service is a public trust. Experience is not the opposite of change — experience is how you deliver it. My record proves I know how to build coalitions, take on powerful interests, and win for Massachusetts.

What do voters want most out of their U.S. senator?

A fighter who delivers. Voters want a senator who knows whose side he is on and will stand up to powerful interests, and who doesn’t bend with the political winds. When private equity greed drove Steward Health Care into bankruptcy and closed hospitals across Massachusetts, I forced the first Senate criminal contempt vote since 1971. When Donald Trump attacks our federal funding, our rights, and our neighbors, I fight back. Right now, I am working to protect 45,000 Haitian Temporary Protected Status holders who are essential to our nursing, restaurant, and hospitality industries, and are the fabric of our communities.

Voters do not want speeches without results. They want someone who will take on corporate greed, defend their communities, and deliver for working families. That is the job I have done, and it is the job I will continue doing every day.

What’s the one spot you would tell visitors they shouldn’t miss in Massachusetts?

The Louise Stokes Fraser statue at Malden High School. Louise, known as the “Malden Meteor,” was a Black track and field star who qualified for the 1932 and 1936 Olympics. Both times, racism denied her the chance to compete. She was removed from the women’s relay team, and replaced by a white athlete. Malden knew her greatness. The community raised money to send her to Berlin and welcomed her home as the champion she was. Today, her statue stands at the high school where her journey began.

Every child who passes it can see what Louise achieved and what was taken from her. Her story teaches us that confronting history is not enough — we must fight for what is right and for the dignity and opportunity of every person, no matter their race, religion, who they love, or where they come from. That is Malden, and that is Massachusetts.

Back to top ↑

Seth Moulton

Town/city: Salem. Age: 47. Party: Democrat.

What are your top three priorities should you win office?

Affordability: Massachusetts families are hurting from skyrocketing costs while corporations and the Epstein class break profit records. We must make housing, education, and healthcare human rights, with policies like banning private equity from buying up homes, offering free universal pre-K, and universal healthcare.

Trump accountability and stopping corruption: The old playbook brought us two terms of Trump and a MAGA Congress. We need new leaders willing to fight to protect our progressive values. I will continue to aggressively fight this lawless and racist administration while working to protect our rights and stop reckless, unauthorized foreign military actions, including ending the war with Iran.

Abolish ICE: We must abolish ICE, prosecute officers who broke the law, and completely overhaul our broken immigration system. We must build a humane, orderly, and fair system that reflects our values, rather than funding a weaponized, unaccountable agency that kills people in our streets.

Why are you best suited for this role?

I’ve always been willing to stand up to the status quo — even members of my own party — to fight for progressive values. My opponent has been in Congress for 50 years and represents the failed playbook that brought us two terms of Trump. We need next-generation leaders who bring new leadership and new energy to the fight against Trump and MAGA Republicans. I’ve done it: creating the national 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, securing $2 billion-plus in federal funds for Lynn, and flipping 24 seats from red to blue through Serve America to help take back the House in 2018.

I’ve said that from day one that, unlike Senator Markey, I will not vote for Chuck Schumer for Senate leadership. I’ve put forth the most progressive affordability agenda, including a national wealth tax, and was the first to call to abolish AND prosecute ICE. This fight can’t wait six more years for change.

What do voters want most out of their U.S. senator?

On my 50-plus-stop listening tour, voters tell me they want urgency, action, and a new generation of leadership. They are tired of an establishment hanging on while everyday families struggle.

The same old playbook isn’t enough anymore. Voters want a new generation of leaders who are willing to go on offense with an aggressive affordability agenda: treating housing, healthcare, and education as fundamental human rights; banning private equity from our neighborhoods; and passing a wealth tax on the Epstein class. They want a real backbone to stand up to Pete Hegseth’s reckless wars, abolish ICE, and protect the integrity of our elections and democracy. Voters don’t want a senator like Ed Markey who will vote to confirm 61 Trump nominees — they want new leaders who will challenge the status quo, take the fight to Trump and MAGA Republicans, defend our progressive values, and deliver results.

What’s the one spot you would tell visitors they shouldn’t miss in Massachusetts?

Fenway Park. You can’t fully understand the grit and character of Massachusetts without experiencing a game there. Fenway represents exactly who we are: loud, loyal, and a community that never backs down from a fight.

Back to top ↑

Congress, 9th District

Incumbent Rep. Bill Keating is running for a ninth term in Congress against a Democratic primary challenger in Craig Swallow, a consultant and New Bedford native running for Congress for the first time. The winner will face Republican R. Tyler MacAllister in November. The 9th District covers New Bedford and most of the South Coast, as well as Cape Cod, the Islands, and swaths of the South Shore.

Bill Keating

Town/city: Bourne. Age: 73. Party: Democrat.

What are your top three priorities should you win office?

My top three priorities surround the affordability crisis. The rising cost of living is crippling working families and limited-income seniors, and widening economic inequality at a staggering rate.

Retiree savings are no longer sufficient, and young families cannot afford to buy homes or pay for child care. This, coupled with the rising cost of healthcare, prescriptions, food, and gas, is forcing many families to make hard cuts they shouldn’t have to.

We have a responsibility to pursue practical solutions that reduce costs while expanding opportunity. That is why I am an original co-sponsor of the Medicare for All Act, which would improve access and lower healthcare costs. I also cosponsored the CONSTRUCTS Act, 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act, and Defending American Jobs and Affordable Energy Act, all of which assist working families while supporting emerging industries. These measures are necessary to increase economic development in our local communities.

Why are you best suited for this role?

With a hyper-partisan executive branch, you need an experienced legislator who delivers for the district. I secured funding for the new Sagamore Bridge, offshore wind development on the South Coast, dredging and seawall construction on the South Shore, community health centers, and environmental preservation on Cape Cod. I kept the cranberry industry out of the European Union’s retaliatory tariffs, and secured commuter designation for our ferries to the Islands.

Throughout my time serving the people of this state, I developed a reputation for independence, even when it means standing up to my own party leaders. I have consistently stood up to President Trump. As a district attorney and chief civil rights enforcer for over a decade, I understand that we must defend our civil rights and due process regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, or immigrant status. I will hold Trump and ICE’s corrupt, discriminatory, and unconstitutional actions accountable.

What do voters want most out of their U.S. representative?

Someone who is responsive to their individual problems and concerns. That includes working to ensure that a veteran is receiving benefits he or she has earned, or helping a Social Security recipient who is struggling to get answers from the Trump administration gets the information they need, that a local family isn’t losing their home, and that a sick child is getting their Medicaid benefits.

Someone who will put their district first and never lose sight of the priorities for that district’s residents and communities.

Someone with experience and an understanding of not only the legislative branch, but also how to navigate critical funding, help a constituent with government bureaucracy, and deliver federal support for the district.

And someone unafraid to speak truth to power, who never backs down from doing what’s right, who will challenge this administration’s corruption, and hold them accountable.

What’s the one spot you would tell visitors they shouldn’t miss in the 9th District?

Our district is arguably the most beautiful in the country. With one of the longest coastlines, diverse communities, and unique historic industries, it is a place anyone would be lucky to visit.

Visitors can take a beautiful ferry ride to one of our two Islands and experience their distinctive cultures. History buffs have their pick of multiple museums dedicated to the Wampanoag tribe, the Plimoth Patuxet living history museum, the Mariposa Museum on the African diaspora, or two world-class whaling museums. There are cranberry bogs, countless lighthouses, and historic town centers to explore with fresh, delicious seafood to eat along the way.

But if I must pick one thing not to miss, it would be the Cape Cod National Seashore. With over 40 miles of pristine coastline, there is a reason why it is in the top 20 most-visited national park sites and the second most-visited national seashore.

Back to top ↑

Craig Swallow

Town/city: New Bedford. Age: 40. Party: Democrat.

What are your top three priorities should you win office?

First, Medicare for All. I’ve watched people put off going to the doctor because they were scared of the bill. That’s not right. Nobody should have to choose between their health and their rent. Everybody gets covered, plain and simple.

Second, we’ve got to overturn Citizens United. Right now, big money runs the show, and regular people barely get a say. Your vote should matter more than some corporation’s checkbook. Until we fix that, everything else is an uphill fight.

Third, we need to rebuild the middle class. Forget the stock market numbers for a second. The real test of a good economy is whether working folks can pay their bills, own a home, and not lie awake worrying. That’s what I’m after.

These aren’t just talking points for me. They’re things I’ve seen my own neighbors deal with.

Why are you best suited for this role?

I’m not a career politician, and I think that’s a good thing.

The whole system’s turned into a money grab. Citizens United opened the door for corporate cash, and you’ve got members of Congress trading stocks while they’re voting on the very things that move those stocks. It’s a mess.

I don’t plan to stick around Washington forever. I’m running to do a job, not build a career out of it. That’s why I back term limits and age limits. Government should look like the people it serves, not a bunch of folks who’ve been there so long they’ve forgotten what regular life feels like.

For the last couple of years, I’ve been on the ground in the district, standing with our immigrant neighbors when they needed someone in their corner. I didn’t wait for permission or for my party to be in charge.

What do voters want most out of their U.S. representative?

People just want someone who actually shows up. That’s it.

They’re tired of the promises that disappear the day after the election. When I’m knocking on doors, folks tell me they want somebody who answers the phone, remembers where they came from, and listens more than they talk. Nobody’s asking for magic. They want a fair shot at good healthcare, a decent job, and a safe place to raise their kids.

Mostly, they want to trust their government again. I get why that trust is broken. If you send me to Congress, I’m staying grounded right here. Your problems become my problems. That’s the deal.

What’s the one spot you would tell visitors they shouldn’t miss in the 9th District?

It’s not just a single landmark, it’s a full day through Greater New Bedford.

Start early with a morning walk through one of our beautiful parks — either Brooklawn or Buttonwood or on the New Bedford waterfront. Then, head straight over to GrandMa’s Donuts (formerly Ma’s — if you know, you know) for their unbelievable donuts or coffee rolls.

From there, take the scenic backroads through Dartmouth toward Horseneck Beach. Along the way, make a pit stop at Davoll’s General Store, the oldest continuously operating general store in the state.

Spend the rest of the day by the ocean at Horseneck. I still get nostalgic thinking about the old snack shack that used to be right there with its soft serve. Cap off dinner right down the road at The Bayside Restaurant.

Back to top ↑