Shawn Oliver suspends Massachusetts lieutenant governor campaign after arrest

Shawn Oliver, the Republican nominee for lieutenant governor of Massachusetts, has suspended his campaign following an arrest for operating under the influence of liquor. The arrest occurred after a late-night crash in New Bedford on Saturday, October 17, 2026, in which Oliver’s vehicle allegedly struck five parked cars and overturned.

Oliver, a 42-year-old New Bedford city councilor and corrections officer, pleaded not guilty on Monday to charges including operating under the influence, negligent operation of a motor vehicle, speeding, and a marked lanes violation. He was released on personal recognizance with the condition that he does not drive while his case is pending.

His running mate, Republican gubernatorial candidate Mike Minogue, expressed extreme disappointment and had publicly called for Oliver to suspend his campaign. Minogue stated that if the Republican ticket is elected, he will formally ask for Oliver’s resignation. Despite the suspension, Oliver’s name will remain on the November 3 ballot as the deadline to withdraw has passed. The Massachusetts Department of Correction has placed Oliver on restricted work duty pending a review of the incident.