New Bedford City Councilor Shawn Oliver Launches Lt. Governor Bid

Oliver to run as Republican on ticket with candidate Brian Shortsleeve

Mar. 27, 2026 at 12:04am

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New Bedford Ward 3 City Councilor Shawn Oliver announced he is running for Massachusetts lieutenant governor, joining Republican gubernatorial candidate Brian Shortsleeve's ticket. Oliver, a conservative who recently joined the GOP, cited his background as a working-class immigrant and his experience as a city councilor in his decision to seek statewide office.

Why it matters

Oliver's candidacy marks the first time in modern history that New Bedford, the state's sixth-largest city, has had a resident run for either governor or lieutenant governor. His campaign could raise the city's profile and bring more attention to the concerns of working-class residents outside of the Boston metro area.

The details

Oliver, a 15-year corrections officer, was elected to the New Bedford City Council in 2023 after previously being unenrolled and then joining the Republican Party in 2025. Shortsleeve, who is running for governor, cited Oliver's 'backbone' and understanding of 'working families' in selecting him as a running mate. Oliver said he was motivated to run for higher office to better represent the 'voices, concerns, and everyday challenges' of his constituents in New Bedford.

  • Oliver was elected to the New Bedford City Council in a special election in 2023.
  • Oliver officially joined the Republican Party in August 2025.
  • Oliver was elected chair of the New Bedford Republican City Committee in February 2026.

The players

Shawn Oliver

A New Bedford city councilor who is running for Massachusetts lieutenant governor as a Republican, joining the ticket of gubernatorial candidate Brian Shortsleeve.

Brian Shortsleeve

The Republican candidate for Massachusetts governor, who selected Shawn Oliver as his running mate for lieutenant governor.

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What they’re saying

“He is a man of conviction, common sense, and service. He understands working families. He understands the pressures facing our communities. And he understands that this election is about restoring a government that respects the people who pay for it.”

— Brian Shortsleeve, Gubernatorial Candidate

“Serving the people of New Bedford is one of the greatest honors, and I want to be clear that commitment does not change. If anything, it's exactly why I'm taking this step. The voices, concerns, and everyday challenges of my constituents are what motivate me to seek higher office, and I will continue to represent them on the city council, bringing the concerns of the city to the campaign trail.”

— Shawn Oliver, New Bedford City Councilor and Lt. Governor Candidate

What’s next

Oliver and Shortsleeve are likely to face a primary battle against at least one other Republican ticket before the general election.

The takeaway

Oliver's candidacy represents a rising conservative voice from outside the Boston area, highlighting the concerns of working-class residents and immigrants in smaller Massachusetts cities like New Bedford. His campaign could elevate issues important to these communities on the statewide stage.