On Wednesday, Massachusetts Republican Governor Charlie Baker announced he will not seek re-election.

Background: In 2014, Charlie Baker was first elected as governor after being defeated by Democrat Deval Patrick in 2010.

Gov. Baker, a moderate Republican, earned scorn from conservatives in his state and former President Trump over his response to the Coronavirus pandemic. Unlike some other Republican governors, Baker opted to implement harsh lockdowns and mandates.

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What Happens Next: Gov. Baker’s decision not to seek a third term tees up Republican Lt. Gov. Karyn Polito to launch a campaign. Attorney General Maura Healey and state Treasurer Deb Goldberg are likely to consider running for the Democratic nomination. (per The Hill)

Why It Matters: Gov. Baker’s decision not to run for re-election comes as a shock as multiple polls reported he was well-positioned to become the first governor of Massachusetts to win a third term.

A recent UMass Amherst survey showed 56 percent of Massachusetts voters approved of the job he has done as governor. Two-thirds said he was doing somewhat or very well handling the pandemic. (per The Hill)

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