Mike Minogue, the Republican candidate for governor of Massachusetts, has announced that his campaign currently boasts a greater cash reserve than that of incumbent Democratic Governor Maura Healey. As of January 31, 2024, Minogue’s election committee reported raising a total of $8,538,804 since he launched his candidacy in October. His campaign holds $5,633,389 in cash on hand, outpacing Healey by nearly $1 million.
In contrast, the Healey Committee has reported $4,712,738 in cash on hand, while Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll has $1,744,959 available. The substantial financial backing for Minogue is indicative of growing support among voters, as he aims to position himself as a viable alternative to the current administration.
Minogue’s campaign highlighted a significant fundraising effort, bringing in $2,319,471 in January alone. He stated in a press release, “Massachusetts voters are tired of being ignored while costs rise and government refuses to account for how their money is spent. This support shows voters want a new kind of governor who will deliver real accountability, make life more affordable, create opportunity, and keep our communities safe.”
The fundraising landscape also includes other Republican candidates, such as Mike Kennealy, who reported $1,567,652 in cash on hand, and Brian Shortsleeve, with $686,351.
Weather Forces Cancellation of Protest Rally
In a separate political development, a planned rally in Boston led by fifth-grade students has been cancelled due to severe weather conditions affecting New England. The rally, organized by the Boston Workers Circle, was intended to advocate for immigrant justice. The city is expected to receive up to eight inches of snow, with temperatures dropping to single digits and wind chills reaching as low as -30 degrees Celsius.
The Solidarity Protest for Immigrant Justice was set for Sunday afternoon outside the State House, where students were to join members of the activist group Neighbors United for a Better East Boston (NUBE). They sought to urge court officials and police to cease their cooperation with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) during courthouse operations.
In their press release, the Boston Workers Circle emphasized that the legal system has become a “pipeline to ICE detention,” with many immigrants perceiving court appearances as potential traps for deportation. They called for legislative action from Chief Justices Kimberly Budd and Heidi Brieger to prohibit ICE arrests in courthouses and improve access to virtual court proceedings.
The rally was intended to feature performances by students, sharing their perspectives on immigrant justice and highlighting the need for reform. The cancellation underscores the impact of extreme weather on community engagement and activism in Massachusetts.