Andrea James, a criminal justice advocate, is running for Massachusetts governor as an independent in the Nov. 3, 2026, general election. She is on a joint ticket with Kittredge, facing Democrat Maura Healey and Kim Driscoll and Republican Mike Minogue and Oliver, according to the state’s candidate list.

James founded the National Council for Incarcerated and Formerly Incarcerated Women and Girls and Families for Justice as Healing. A former attorney, she has degrees from the University of Massachusetts Boston and Northeastern University School of Law, according to her public biography.

A court disciplinary memorandum records guilty pleas to one mail-fraud count and three wire-fraud counts in July 2009, followed by a 24-month prison sentence on Dec. 7, 2009. Her disbarment order was entered in May 2010.

Healthcare, childcare and housing

James’s campaign platform calls for Medicare for All, universal childcare, housing for all and equitable education funding. She also supports a public banking system.

A governor could pursue a state universal-coverage program, but could not independently expand federal Medicare. A state plan would require legislation, financing and potentially federal approvals or waivers. Universal childcare and a public bank would also require decisions about eligibility, administration and public funding.

The materials reviewed do not provide a complete implementation budget, revenue plan or timetable for these proposals. Their potential value to local households therefore cannot be reduced to a verified savings figure.

Immigration cooperation

James calls for ending Massachusetts contracts and cooperation with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. The effects would depend on which state agreements and practices were changed. State action would not remove federal immigration authorities’ powers.

Energy and data centers

James supports banning data centers and promoting green energy while lowering utility costs. A statewide ban would require a legal framework defining covered facilities, existing operations and enforcement. The campaign materials reviewed do not establish its fiscal or electricity-price effects.

Recognition and the governor’s role

James’s biography lists a 2016 RFK Human Rights Award, a 2015 Soros Justice Fellowship and a 2025 Massachusetts Black Women Attorneys public-service award. These are awards and recognition, not campaign endorsements.

The governor can propose legislation and budgets and direct executive agencies within existing law. Many of James’s proposals would require legislative approval and appropriations.

Source note: This profile draws on public campaign materials, official election records and the court disciplinary memorandum. Campaign proposals are attributed to James.

The Andover Ledger did not receive a direct questionnaire response from the candidate and does not endorse candidates.