Lexington, MA – Republican gubernatorial candidate Mike Kennealy is condemning Governor Maura Healey for siding with rioters in California and rejecting efforts to restore law and order. On Sunday, Governor Healey joined a group of Democrat governors in signing a letter criticizing the federal government’s decision to deploy the National Guard in response to violent riots that broke out in California.

What began as a protest quickly escalated into chaos—a major freeway was blocked, vehicles were set on fire, and stores were looted. By opposing the federal response, Governor Healey is signaling her disapproval of law enforcement intervention and legitimizing criminal behavior under the guise of protest.

“This isn’t about politics—it’s about public safety. Unfortunately, Maura Healey simply does not understand that,” said Kennealy. “If Democrat Governors like Gavin Newsom won’t act to stop lawlessness, then the federal government has both the right and responsibility to step in. This is about protecting lives, defending small businesses, and ensuring ambulances and first responders aren’t trapped behind burning cars and blocked highways. The goal should be de-escalation, not encouraging further destruction for political gain.”

Kennealy added, “This is exactly why Maura Healey has overstayed her time as Governor. We cannot afford leadership that plays politics with people’s lives. Massachusetts cannot follow California’s lead down a path of lawlessness. When the federal government offers help to restore order and protect citizens, we take it—because doing the right thing for our people should always come before scoring partisan points.”

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