Massachusetts voters support cutting the state income tax, instituting rent control, and allowing same-day voter registration, according to a new University of New Hampshire poll.

At the same time, Gov. Maura Healey maintains a strong approval rating and holds commanding early leads over potential Republican challengers in 2026.

The February 2026 Bay State poll surveyed 670 Massachusetts residents between Feb. 12 and Feb. 16. It found majority support for several potential ballot questions while showing Healey in a strong position.

What the Ballot Question Polling Shows

Sixty-one percent of Massachusetts residents support same-day voter registration, including 49% who strongly support it.

Fifty-eight percent support decreasing the state income tax from 5% to 4%.

Fifty-six percent support establishing rent control that would limit annual rent increases to the Consumer Price Index or 5%, whichever is lower.

In contrast, 63% oppose repealing laws that permit the sale of recreational marijuana and home cultivation of cannabis.

The poll says, “Advocates have collected sufficient signatures on several proposals through the Commonwealth’s initiative petition process,” meaning lawmakers and petition organizers will determine whether the measures advance to the November ballot.

Support varies by party. Republicans overwhelmingly back the income tax cut, while Democrats strongly favor same-day registration and rent control. Republicans are more likely than Democrats to support repealing recreational marijuana laws.

Governor Healey’s Approval Rating

Fifty-one percent of Massachusetts residents approve of the job Healey is doing as governor. Forty percent disapprove, and 8% are neutral or unsure.

Healey’s net approval rating stands at +11, up from +6 in November.

Eighty percent of Democrats approve of her performance, compared to 43% of independents and 4% of Republicans.

Healey’s Lead Over Republican Challengers

The poll also tested general election matchups.

In a head-to-head contest, 55% say they would vote for Healey against former Housing and Economic Development Secretary Mike Kennealy, who receives 28%. Sixteen percent remain undecided.

Against former MBTA Chief Administrator Brian Shortsleeve, Healey receives 58% to Shortsleeve’s 28%, with 14% undecided.

In a matchup with former health care executive Michael Minogue, Healey leads 56% to 27%, with 15% undecided.

Each scenario shows Healey with a two-to-one advantage across the Commonwealth.

Cost of Living Tops Voter Concerns

When asked to name the most important problem facing Massachusetts, 28% cited the cost of living and 24% cited housing.

The poll says Bay Staters are more likely than in 2025 and 2024 to cite the cost of living as the most important problem facing the Commonwealth.

NewBostonPost will continue covering how these proposals move through Beacon Hill and how the 2026 governor’s race develops.

FAQ

What ballot questions are Massachusetts voters supporting?

Majorities support same-day voter registration, cutting the income tax from 5% to 4%, and establishing rent control. Most Massachusetts residents oppose repealing recreational marijuana laws.

What is Gov. Maura Healey’s approval rating?

Fifty-one percent approve of her job performance, while 40% disapprove.

How large is Healey’s lead over Republican challengers?

She leads Kennealy by 27 points, Shortsleeve by 30 points, and Minogue by 29 points in early general election matchups.

What is the biggest issue facing Massachusetts?

The cost of living ranks first at 28%, followed by housing at 24%.

When could these ballot questions appear?

Supporters have gathered signatures through the initiative petition process. The Legislature and petition organizers will determine whether the measures appear on the November 2026 ballot.