Republican Lieutenant Governor Candidate Shawn Oliver Suspends Campaign After DUI Crash
Shawn Oliver suspended his campaign for Massachusetts Lieutenant Governor after being arrested for a drunk driving crash that overturned his SUV in New Bedford.
Republican candidate for Massachusetts Lieutenant Governor Shawn Oliver suspended his campaign on Sunday, October 18, 2026, following his arrest for a drunk driving crash. The incident occurred around 11:40 p.m. Saturday on Dartmouth Street in New Bedford, where Oliver's SUV overturned and struck five parked vehicles, two of which sustained extensive damage. Oliver faces charges of operating under the influence of liquor, negligent operation of a motor vehicle, speeding, and a marked lanes violation.
Republican gubernatorial nominee Mike Minogue pressured Oliver to step aside immediately, stating there is "no excuse for driving under the influence." Minogue declared that if both are elected on November 3, he will formally ask for Oliver's resignation. Massachusetts Republican Party Chair Amy Carnevale supported the suspension, noting that putting lives at risk is "never acceptable."
Oliver, who also serves as a New Bedford city councilor, was released from jail Sunday morning after receiving treatment at St. Luke’s Hospital. He stated that the election is too important to be overshadowed by personal matters. Because early voting is already underway and ballots are printed, Oliver's name remains on the ballot for the November 3 election against Democratic incumbents Governor Maura Healey and Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll.
