BOSTON, MA – Today, Marine Corps Veteran, successful business leader, and proven government reformer Brian Shortsleeve, Republican candidate for governor announced that State Senator Peter Durant (R-Spencer) has endorsed his candidacy. Durant is the first Republican State Senator to endorse in the race.
Senator Durant, who had previously considered a run for governor himself, cited Shortsleeve’s leadership and ability to defeat Maura Healey as reasons for his support.
“As you know, due to the dire circumstances of the Commonwealth, I seriously contemplated running for Governor. We need new leadership in the Corner Office,” said Durant. “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 Brian Shortsleeve for Governor.”
Durant emphasized Shortsleeve’s commitment to fiscal responsibility and reforming the state’s Right to Shelter law.
“One of my top priorities is to amend the Right to Shelter law to end the costly migrant crisis. I’ve found that Brian is the candidate most committed to ending Healey’s sanctuary policies and stopping the wasteful spending of billions of dollars on the migrant issue,” said Durant. “Brian and I share the same goals when it comes to protecting taxpayers.”
Durant also noted that Shortsleeve’s leadership at the top of the ticket will strengthen Republican chances statewide.
“As a candidate for re-election next year, I want Brian leading our ticket because he’s the one who can defeat Healey. He has the right message, work ethic, and determination to save the Commonwealth,” added Durant.
Shortsleeve welcomed Durant’s endorsement and praised his record.
Senator Durant has been a real leader in fighting for taxpayers and standing up against the costly influx of migrants into our state,” said Shortsleeve. “I’m honored to have his support.”
Durant joins State Representatives Marc Lombardo and Nick Boldyga, who have also endorsed Shortsleeve’s campaign.
“This is another major endorsement for our team and our momentum continues to grow every day,” Shortsleeve added. “The support from Senator Durant and Representatives Lombardo and Boldyga shows that our message is resonating across Massachusetts.”
State Senator Peter Durant is a lifelong resident of Spencer, Massachusetts. Throughout his career in public service, he has earned a reputation as a defender of the taxpayer, an advocate for small businesses, and a hard-working public servant. Durant received his high school diploma from David Prouty High School and holds a Bachelor’s Degree from Northeastern University.
He first began his public service in 1999 serving on the Spencer Finance Committee, and was later elected to the Spencer Board of Selectmen in 2006. In 2011, Durant was elected to the Massachusetts House of Representatives to represent the 6th Worcester District, containing the towns of Charlton, Dudley, Southbridge, and Spencer.
Throughout his tenure, Durant has consistently stood up for taxpayers and common sense policy. He has also received a 100% rating for supporting small businesses from the National Federation of Independent Business – the nation’s leading small business association. Professionally, Durant owned a small business and worked as a construction manager for over 20 years, specializing in building automation and energy efficiency projects across the United States.
Durant is currently married to his wife, former State Representative Kate Campanale. They reside in the town of Spencer.