State senator Peter Durant (R-Spencer) has officially endorsed Republican gubernatorial candidate Brian Shortsleeve for governor.

Durant, who announced his backing of Shortsleeve’s candidacy in a press conference outside the state house Thursday, is the first Republican senator to make an official endorsement in the 2026 election.

The state senator, who had previously considered his own run for governor, cited Shortsleeve’s leadership and potential above fellow Republican candidates Mike Kennealy and Michael Minogue to unseat Democratic Gov. Maura Healey in the general election.

“After much consideration and meeting with all the candidates, there is one person who I believe can defeat Maura Healey and restore common sense for the Commonwealth. That’s why today I am proudly endorsing Bri

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