Holyoke Mayor Joshua Garcia joined a coalition of Western Massachusetts elected officials Tuesday morning at the International Volleyball Hall of Fame to formally endorse Gov. Maura Healey and Lt. Gov. Kim Driscoll for reelection.

Garcia, who first endorsed Healey four years ago, cited the administration’s “unwavering commitment” to Holyoke, specifically highlighting progress in housing, the restoration of the Victory Theater, and the return of local control to Holyoke Public Schools.

Housing and Economic Growth
Garcia noted that Holyoke currently leads the Commonwealth in affordable housing per capita at 19.34%, more than double the statewide average of 9.68%.

“Those aren’t just numbers. That’s opportunity. That’s stability. That’s progress,” Garcia said. He emphasized that the partnership with the Healey-Driscoll administration has also spurred market-rate development, with the city on track to add more than 700 new housing units over the next four years.

Local Control and Infrastructure
The mayor praised the administration’s “comprehensive and responsible” decision to return the city’s schools to local oversight after years of state receivership. He also highlighted state investments in the Victory Theater, noting that the project has completed its first phase of hazard remediation and structural stabilization.

A “Team Massachusetts” Approach
Several local leaders joined the endorsement, emphasizing the administration’s accessibility and collaborative spirit:

State Rep. Pat Duffy praised Healey’s ability to pivot during crises, calling her a “steady voice” for the region.

State Rep. Brian Ashe reflected on his long-standing relationship with the governor, noting the importance of having a partner on Beacon Hill who treats local leaders as equals.

City Council President Tessa Murphy-Romboletti credited the administration with supporting critical legislation to modernize the city’s municipal finances.

“It’s not how you solve all the state’s problems,” Garcia said of the administration’s leadership. “It’s how you work together with the people and respond when problems appear.”

The event was attended and supported by the Mayor of Easthampton, Salem Derby; Representative Patricia Duffy of 5th Hampden, which includes Holyoke; Brian Ashe, of 2nd Hampden, which includes East Longmeadow; Holyoke City Council President, Tessa Murphy-Romboletti, and Juan Anderson-Burgos, Councillor for Ward 6 of the City of Holyoke. All the elected officials closed the event, reaffirming their support for “Team Healey-Driscoll” as the reelection campaign moves forward into the 2026 cycle.

Recorded at the International Volleyball Hall of Fame in Holyoke, on February 17, 2026.