Massachusetts Democratic Party Chair Admits to Sufficient Facts in June DUI Case

Steve Kerrigan, chairman of the Massachusetts Democratic Party, acknowledged prosecutors had sufficient evidence to support a conviction in an operating under the influence case stemming from a June 13 traffic stop. A judge in Westborough District Court continued the OUI liquor charge without a finding on June 15 after Kerrigan entered an admission to sufficient facts, a legal disposition under Massachusetts law, according to court records.

The 54-year-old Democratic leader faced additional charges of negligent operation and a marked lanes violation, both of which were resolved unfavorably. The negligent operation charge was dismissed, while he was found not responsible for the marked lanes violation. A judge sentenced him to one year’s probation, suspended his driver’s license for 45 days, imposed $600 in fees, and mandated completion of an impaired driving education program.

A Southborough Police officer stopped Kerrigan shortly after midnight on June 13 after observing his BMW drift across lane markings. The officer noted Kerrigan displayed signs consistent with impairment, including glassy and bloodshot eyes and slurred speech, though the officer reported an overpowering cologne scent prevented detection of alcohol odor.

Kerrigan told the officer he was returning home from dinner and had consumed two beers around 6 p.m. A breathalyzer test registered 0.089% blood alcohol content, exceeding Massachusetts’s legal limit of 0.08%. Kerrigan acknowledged the incident in a statement, saying he regretted his actions and took full responsibility for the consequences.

Kerrigan was elected chair of the Massachusetts Democratic Party in 2023. He previously served as the Democratic nominee for lieutenant governor in 2014 and held an executive position with the Democratic National Convention Committee. He also serves as president and CEO of the Edward M. Kennedy Community Health Center.