New Faces and New Ideas Shake Up Massachusetts Politics

A long‑time congressman from Massachusetts is about to face a fresh challenger in the 2026 primary. The incumbent, who has served since 1988 and once taught public school, will now be tested by a teacher from the Pioneer Valley who claims to bring a break from “old‑school” politics. The challenger, Jeromie Whalen, says corporate influence has pushed the nation off course and vows to bring real community voices into Washington. He grew up in Belchertown, earned a Ph. D. from UMass Amherst in 2025, and now teaches in South Hadley with his wife. The district covers a wide swath of western and central Massachusetts, including 83 cities and towns. The incumbent’s history includes city council service, a mayoral term in the 1980s, and a long tenure on the House Ways and Means Committee, where he became chair in 2019. Now, a new perspective from the classroom could reshape how constituents view their representation.Meanwhile, another congressman in the state is pushing for a different change. Jim McGovern has introduced legislation to end the U. S. embargo on Cuba, arguing that it is outdated and harmful to Cubans while benefiting hardliners. The bill would remove the legal foundation for the embargo, lift trade restrictions, and allow U. S. businesses, tourists, and universities more access to Cuba. A similar Senate proposal is also underway. Both stories show that Massachusetts lawmakers are debating how best to serve their communities—whether by challenging entrenched political practices or by redefining foreign policy. The upcoming elections and legislative actions will decide whether the state leans toward continuity or bold new directions.