Shawn Oliver suspends lieutenant governor campaign following OUI arrest

New Bedford City Councilor Shawn Oliver has suspended his campaign for lieutenant governor following his arrest on operating under the influence and related charges after a late-night rollover crash, according to local and state reports.

New Bedford Police Department spokesperson Holly Huntoon stated that officers responded to a reported vehicle crash at approximately 11:40 p.m. On Saturday on Dartmouth Street. According to reports from the scene, an overturned car struck multiple parked vehicles, with five total vehicles involved and two sustaining extensive damage.

Following the crash, Oliver was transported to St. Luke’s Hospital for treatment of injuries. He was subsequently taken into custody and booked at the Ash Street Jail early Sunday morning, according to the Bristol County Sheriff’s Office.

Charges and Legal Proceedings

Police charged Oliver with operating under the influence of liquor, negligent operation of a motor vehicle, a "marked lanes violation" and speeding, Huntoon said. Bristol County Sheriff Paul Heroux told The New Bedford Light that Oliver was booked at about 6:45 a.m. Sunday and released just after 9 a.m.

Oliver told a reporter he had been in a crash on Dartmouth Street and declined to comment further. Later on Sunday afternoon, Oliver released a statement announcing his withdrawal from the statewide race via a Facebook post.

"After careful reflection, I have made the decision to suspend my campaign for Lieutenant Governor. This election is too important to be overshadowed by personal matters. I want to sincerely thank everyone who has supported me throughout this journey and ask that my family’s privacy be respected during this difficult time."

Shawn Oliver, New Bedford City Councilor, via social media

Oliver’s statement did not address his seat on the New Bedford City Council.

Political Fallout and Running Mate's Response

The swift suspension followed immediate public pressure from Oliver’s running mate, Republican gubernatorial candidate Mike Minogue. Minogue released a statement demanding that Oliver step aside immediately.

"I am extremely disappointed. Shawn is lucky to be alive and lucky that no one innocent was hurt. There is no excuse for driving under the influence."

Mike Minogue, Republican gubernatorial candidate, via statement

Minogue added that he spoke with Oliver directly, urging him to focus on his family and personal well-being. Minogue noted that he offered assistance to help Oliver ensure such an incident never occurs again.

Candidate / Official	Role	Response to Arrest
Mike Minogue	Gubernatorial Candidate (R)	Called for immediate suspension; pledged to request resignation if elected.
Amy Carnevale	MassGOP Chair	Supported campaign suspension; offered assistance for recovery.
Shawn Oliver	Lieutenant Governor Candidate (R) / Ward 3 Councilor	Suspended campaign following hospital treatment and jail booking.

The Massachusetts Republican Party quickly aligned with the decision to suspend the campaign. MassGOP chair Amy Carnevale issued a statement addressing the safety risks involved.

"The MassGOP supports the decision of Shawn Oliver to suspend his campaign for Lieutenant Governor. Lives were put at risk and that is never acceptable. We now stand to assist Shawn in getting any help he needs to ensure he never puts himself or others in harm’s way again. We also recognize that Shawn Oliver is holding himself accountable for his actions and facing the consequences of this situation."

Amy Carnevale, MassGOP Chair, via statement

Ballot Status and Next Steps

Oliver won the Republican nomination for lieutenant governor in the September primary, after which he pledged to run alongside Minogue.

With the general election scheduled for Nov. 3, ballots have already been printed. Furthermore, early voting is underway through Friday, Oct. 30.

Because the ballots are finalized, Oliver's name will remain printed alongside Minogue's in their matchup against the Democratic ticket of Governor Maura Healey and Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. Minogue explained that if he and Oliver defeat the incumbent ticket, Oliver would technically be voted in as lieutenant governor, which is why Minogue would then have to ask for his resignation.

Legal proceedings begin with Oliver's arraignment in a New Bedford court. Meanwhile, voters continue casting early ballots as the Republican ticket navigates the final weeks ofமய the campaign cycle under altered circumstances.