Businessman Chris Doughty released a video Wednesday announcing that he is seeking the Republican nomination for governor of Massachusetts.
Doughty, 59, of Wrentham, in the video touted his success creating jobs as the president of a company that manufactures metal machine parts, a business that stumbled at first when a critical piece of machinery broke down.
“With the right team, a little creativity and the willingness to work hard, just about any problem can be solved,” he said. “This is the same work ethic and teamwork I will bring as your governor.”
He called for making Massachusetts more affordable, protecting businesses, and recruiting high-paying jobs to the state. He also called for making Massachusetts an educational leader from early education through college and trade schools.
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Doughty is seen as a moderate alternative to the other Republican who has announced a run, former state lawmaker Geoff Diehl, who has been endorsed by former president Donald Trump.
More on the Massachusetts Governor's Race
Diehl released a statement on the announcement, saying, in part:
"I announced my candidacy for Governor last July. My decision wasn't motivated by whether or not Charlie Baker was running, or by who my liberal Democrat opponent might be. I decided to run for Governor because I know I'm the best person to lead our state out of the pandemic and rebuild our economy, with a focus on making our state more affordable and with respect for individual freedoms. Today, I'm still in the best poition of any candidate to deliver on those promises."
A father and grandfather, Doughty has never before run for political office.
Attorney General Maura Healey, state Sen. Sonia Chang-Diaz, and Harvard University professor Danielle Allen are running as Democrats. Incumbent Republican Gov. Charlie Baker is not seeking a third term.
