Waltham, MA — Republican gubernatorial candidate Mike Kennealy sharply criticized Governor Healey for the administration’s handling of the so-called “Clean Heat Standard,” labeling it as a misguided policy that would burden Massachusetts families with higher costs. Kennealy argued that the recent decision to delay the Clean Heat Standard’s implementation until 2028 is nothing more than a cynical political maneuver to avoid accountability for rising energy prices during an election year.

“The Clean Heat Standard is a textbook example of government overreach—crafted behind closed doors by climate activists, with no regard for the financial strain it places on working families,” said Kennealy. “Studies show this policy could hike home heating bills by as much as $425 a year. If the Governor truly believed in this plan, there would be no need to delay it for political convenience.”

Kennealy went on to call the delay an admission of the policy’s fundamental flaws, “When you know a policy is so damaging that you have to hide it from voters, it’s clear you’re putting politics ahead of people. As Governor, I will bring transparency and common sense back to Beacon Hill—focusing on practical solutions that lower the cost of living, not ideological mandates that threaten grid reliability and make our state even less affordable for those who live here and want to build their business here.”

Framing the election as a clear choice, Kennealy added, “Massachusetts families deserve leadership that puts their needs first. This election is about whether we continue down a path of higher energy bills and political gamesmanship with Governor Healey, or choose common sense governance that makes our state affordable for everyone—not just the wealthy or well-connected.”

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