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Taunton Today
By the People, for the People
Taunton's O'Connell, Dooner Reflect on Trailblazing Careers
Taunton mayor and state senator discuss challenges and opportunities for women in politics.
Mar. 29, 2026 at 10:23am
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Taunton's trailblazing women leaders reflect on the challenges and opportunities for female politicians in their community.Taunton TodayTaunton Mayor Shaunna O'Connell and State Senator Kelly Dooner, who O'Connell mentored, reflect on their trailblazing careers as women leaders in local and state politics. They discuss the importance of mentorship and the need for more women to take on leadership roles.
Why it matters
The story highlights the ongoing challenges and barriers that women face in achieving political leadership positions, even in a progressive city like Taunton. O'Connell and Dooner's experiences provide valuable insights into the strategies and support systems that can help empower more women to run for office and succeed in government.
The details
O'Connell, who has served as Taunton's mayor since 2020, mentored Dooner when she was a city councilor. Dooner went on to become a state senator, representing Taunton and the surrounding region. In their conversation, the two women discuss the importance of mentorship, the need to encourage more women to run for office, and the unique challenges they have faced as female leaders in a male-dominated field.
- Shaunna O'Connell has served as Taunton's mayor since 2020.
- Kelly Dooner was a city councilor before being elected as a state senator.
The players
Shaunna O'Connell
The mayor of Taunton, Massachusetts, who has mentored other women leaders in the city.
Kelly Dooner
A state senator representing Taunton and the surrounding region, who was mentored by Mayor O'Connell when she was a city councilor.
What they’re saying
“There aren't many women in leadership roles in politics, and I think in our area Mayor (Shaunna) O'Connell has really paved the way for women in leadership roles.”
— Kelly Dooner, State Senator
The takeaway
O'Connell and Dooner's experiences highlight the importance of mentorship and support systems in empowering more women to pursue leadership roles in politics. Their story serves as an inspiration for aspiring female politicians and a call to action for creating more opportunities for women to succeed in government.
