The Massachusetts gubernatorial race has been thrown into chaos just two weeks before Election Day following the dramatic arrest of Republican lieutenant governor candidate Shawn Oliver early Sunday morning.
Oliver, a 42-year-old New Bedford City Councilor running alongside businessman Mike Minogue officially suspended his campaign hours after police responded to a severe single-vehicle crash on Dartmouth Street. According to the New Bedford Police Department, officers arrived at the scene around 11:40 p.m. Saturday to find a vehicle that had struck multiple parked cars and overturned.
Following an investigation, Oliver was taken into custody and faces multiple serious charges, including:
- Operating under the influence of liquor
- Negligent operation of a motor vehicle
- A marked lanes violation
- Speeding
Oliver was subsequently transported to St. Luke’s Hospital for treatment of his injuries.
Swift Backlash from Running Mate and Party Leaders
Republican candidate for Gov. Mike Minogue announced Sunday that he asked his running mate, Shawn Oliver, to suspend his campaign after the latter was arrested on OUI charges.
“After speaking with Shawn, I am asking him to suspend his campaign immediately, and when elected, I will formally ask for his resignation,” Minogue said in a statement.
Minogue emphasized relief that no innocent bystanders were injured in the crash while expressing deep disappointment over the incident.
MassGOP Chairwoman Amy Carnevale also weighed in, supporting Oliver’s decision to step back and stating that the party is ready to help him get the assistance he needs. New Bedford Mayor Jon Mitchell echoed those concerns, releasing a statement that thanked first responders and called the allegations deeply concerning.
As the November 3 general election rapidly approaches, the unexpected scandal leaves the Minogue-Oliver ticket scrambling to reshape its campaign in the final stretch.
Original reporting sourced via WCVB.
