TAUNTON — Republican gubernatorial candidate Brian Shortsleeve has won the endorsements of Taunton Mayor Shaunna O’Connell, as well as other elected officials in the city.

O’Connell, a former state Representative, joined Shortsleeve just across the street from City Hall at Liberty and Union Park, highlighting what she says is the candidate’s commitment to providing local aid to cities and towns.

“I’m endorsing Brian Shortsleeve because he understands the many challenges families and communities are feeling every day.  Brian knows that affordability isn’t just a policy issue.  It’s a kitchen-table issue,” O’Connell said.

“Brian knows how essential strong local aid is to the health of our cities and towns. Brian is committed to delivering the resources municipalities need to keep schools strong, improve public safety, and ease the burden on homeowners. He knows that when communities have the support they deserve, families thrive and that’s the kind of partnership municipalities across Massachusetts can count on from him,” she said.

Shortsleeve also won endorsements from Taunton City Councilor and state rep candidate Larry Quintal and former State Rep. Jeff Perry. Quintal praised Shortsleeve for his promise to provide reliable state support to municipalities across the state and to build strong partnerships with them.

“We have seen over 160 communities need overrides.  Easton and Raynham are facing tough decisions because Gov. Healey and her legislative allies have diverted funds that could have gone for local aid to the migrants. That’s the wrong priority,” said Quintal. “As the next state representative, I look forward to working with Brian Shortsleeve to bring back common sense to the State House.”

Shortsleeve thanked the Mayor and Councilor and praised their commitment to local leadership and caring for their constituents.

“Mayor O’Connell and Councilor Quintal work every day to strengthen Taunton and improve the lives of the people they serve. I’m grateful for their support and partnership.  Local leaders understand better than anyone what’s working, what’s not, and what families need to succeed,” Shortsleeve said. “As governor, I will work with every city and town to ensure they have the tools, resources, and support required to build strong communities and a stronger Massachusetts.”

The support in Taunton adds to a growing list for Shortsleeve, who has announced nearly 20 other early endorsements in the governor’s race.

Shortsleeve will face off against challengers Mike Kennealy and Mike Minogue in the Republican primary election in September.

Republican gubernatorial candidate Brian Shortsleeve announces the endorsement of Taunton Mayor Shaunna O’Connell. (Tim Dunn/Boston Herald)