Full Breakdown
Mike Minogue Says He Will Govern Without a Lieutenant Governor After Running Mate’s Arrest
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Event: Running-Mate Suspended and Ticket Left Without a Lieutenant Governor
Republican gubernatorial nominee Mike Minogue announced that the lieutenant-governor slot on his ticket will remain vacant if he wins in November. The decision follows the suspension of his running mate Shawn Oliver, a New Bedford city councilor, after Oliver was arrested on charges of operating under the influence, negligent operation, speeding and a marked-lanes violation. Oliver pleaded not guilty in New Bedford District Court and was released on the condition that he not drive while the case is pending.
Background & Context
Massachusetts’ Constitution provides no mechanism for appointing a replacement lieutenant governor. The office’s primary duty is to assume the governorship when the governor is out of state; the next in line is the secretary of state, followed by the attorney general and treasurer and auditor. A similar vacancy occurred during Governor Deval Patrick’s tenure when Lt. Gov. Tim Murray resigned.
Timeline
- Saturday night – Oliver crashes his SUV into five parked cars after consuming at least two alcoholic drinks.
- Sunday – Oliver announces suspension of his campaign; Minogue calls for the suspension.
- Monday – Oliver appears in court, pleads not guilty, and is released on personal recognizance. Minogue holds a press availability in Hamilton, reiterating that Oliver will not serve as lieutenant governor.
- Early voting – Over 200,000 voters have already cast ballots.
- Upcoming – The general election is scheduled for November.
Data & Statistics
- Early voting: More than 200,000 ballots cast.
- Salary: Lieutenant governor’s annual salary is $216,292.
- Succession: With the office vacant, the secretary of state would be next in line to act as governor.
Official Statements & Responses
The secretary of state’s office confirmed the constitution provides no process to replace a lieutenant governor who steps down, meaning the office would stay empty until the next regular election.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I am glad he's safe, but at this point, I called for him to suspend and terminate his campaign, and he will not be my lieutenant governor,” — Mike Minogue
- “And please do not mark off or do anything different or write in because it will disqualify the people's vote,” — Mike Minogue
Why It Matters / Impact
Leaving the lieutenant-governor post vacant shifts the line of succession to the secretary of state, potentially affecting emergency decision-making. The ballot will still list Oliver’s name despite his suspension, testing voter behavior.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
State officials note the constitutional gap that could leave the office empty for an entire term. No legislative proposals to address the vacancy were cited.
What’s Next
Voters will see Oliver’s name on the November ballot, but Minogue has pledged to ask Oliver to resign immediately if the ticket wins. The election will determine whether Massachusetts operates for the next four years with an empty lieutenant-governor slot, relying on the secretary of state for succession duties.
