Kim Driscoll

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Kim Driscoll
BornKimberley Lord Driscoll
12 8, 1966
BirthplaceHawaii, U.S.
NationalityAmerican
OccupationPolitician, lawyer
Title50th Mayor of Salem
EducationSalem State University (BA)
Massachusetts School of Law (JD)
Spouse(s)Nick Driscoll
Children3
Website[Official government page Official site]

Kimberley Lord Driscoll (born August 12, 1966) is an American politician and lawyer serving as the 73rd lieutenant governor of Massachusetts since January 2023, alongside Governor Maura Healey. A member of the Democratic Party, Driscoll previously served as the 50th mayor of Salem, Massachusetts, a position she held from 2006 to 2023, making her one of the longest-serving mayors in the city's modern history. Before entering elected office, she built a career in municipal government, serving as an elected member of the Salem City Council and working as the deputy city manager and chief legal counsel for the city of Chelsea. During her tenure as mayor, Driscoll oversaw significant economic development initiatives, environmental sustainability programs, and efforts to expand Salem's identity beyond its well-known association with the Salem witch trials. Her election as lieutenant governor in 2022, on a ticket with Healey, marked the first time two women were elected to serve together as governor and lieutenant governor in Massachusetts history. Since taking office at the state level, the Healey-Driscoll administration has focused on affordability, housing, and economic competitiveness in the Commonwealth.[1]

Early Life

Kim Driscoll was born on August 12, 1966, in Hawaii. Details regarding her family background and upbringing prior to her arrival in Massachusetts remain limited in publicly available sources. She eventually settled in Salem, Massachusetts, where she would build both her personal and professional life. Salem, a city of approximately 43,000 residents on the North Shore of Massachusetts, is known internationally for the Salem witch trials of 1692, but also has a rich maritime heritage and a diverse economic base that would come to define much of Driscoll's political career.

Education

Driscoll attended Salem State University, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree. She subsequently obtained her Juris Doctor (JD) from the Massachusetts School of Law, qualifying her for a career in both law and public service. Her legal training informed her early work in municipal government, particularly her role as chief legal counsel for the city of Chelsea.

Career

Early Municipal Government Career

Before becoming mayor of Salem, Driscoll gained significant experience in municipal governance. She served as an elected member of the Salem City Council, giving her direct experience with local legislative processes and constituent services. She also worked for the city of Chelsea, Massachusetts, where she held dual roles as deputy city manager and chief legal counsel. Chelsea, a densely populated city adjacent to Boston, had undergone a period of state receivership in the 1990s due to financial and corruption crises, and Driscoll's work there provided her with experience in urban management and municipal recovery efforts.

Mayor of Salem (2006–2023)

Driscoll was inaugurated as the 50th mayor of Salem on January 2, 2006, succeeding Stanley Usovicz.[2] She would go on to win re-election multiple times, including announcing her intention to seek a third term.[3] Her tenure as mayor lasted until January 4, 2023, when she was succeeded by Bob McCarthy upon her inauguration as lieutenant governor.

Economic Development

One of the defining aspects of Driscoll's mayoralty was her focus on economic development and the revitalization of Salem's downtown and waterfront areas. Under her leadership, the city pursued a significant transformation of its harbor and waterfront district. The Footprint Power Salem Harbor project represented a major redevelopment effort at the site of a former power plant, which Driscoll's administration worked to convert into a modern development that would benefit the city's economy and environment.[4] NECN reported on the broader transformation underway in Salem, describing a billion-dollar redevelopment effort for the city.[5]

The Salem Wharf area also received attention as part of broader waterfront revitalization plans during Driscoll's administration.[6] These development projects aimed to diversify Salem's economy and create year-round economic activity, rather than relying primarily on the seasonal tourism associated with Halloween and the city's witch trial history.

Tourism itself remained an important component of Salem's economy during Driscoll's tenure. Reports indicated that tourism was on the rise in Salem under her leadership, reflecting efforts to market the city as a destination for its cultural institutions, maritime history, and dining scene in addition to its October attractions.[7]

Salem Ferry

The Salem ferry service, which provided a commuter and recreational water transportation link between Salem and Boston, was a notable element of Driscoll's tenure as mayor. The ferry service aimed to provide an alternative transportation option for commuters traveling to Boston and to boost Salem's appeal as a waterfront community. However, the service experienced challenges, including fluctuations in ridership. The Salem News reported on a drop in ridership on the Salem ferry during her time as mayor.[8]

The ferry's operational challenges led to periodic adjustments in service. At one point, the Salem ferry was cut back to operating three days a week.[9] The city also explored the possibility of changing ferry operators in an effort to improve the service's viability.[10] The ferry service eventually became part of the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) system, integrating Salem's water transportation with the broader regional transit network.[11]

Environmental and Sustainability Initiatives

Driscoll placed a significant emphasis on environmental sustainability during her time as mayor. Salem became a designated Green Community under the Massachusetts Green Communities program, which provided municipalities with funding and technical assistance to reduce energy consumption and promote clean energy.[12] In 2013, Massachusetts awarded $37 million in Green Communities grants, and Salem was among the communities that benefited from this state program during Driscoll's tenure.[13]

As part of its Green Communities designation, Salem pursued several concrete environmental initiatives. The city installed electric vehicle charging stations, reflecting a commitment to supporting alternative transportation and reducing carbon emissions.[14]

Driscoll also implemented a mandatory recycling program in Salem, a policy change that required residents to participate in curbside recycling rather than making it voluntary. The Salem News covered the rollout of the program, reporting on the start of mandatory recycling in the city.[15] The city's recycling program was part of a broader effort to reduce waste and promote sustainable practices among residents.[16]

Governance Philosophy and Public Profile

During her years as mayor, Driscoll developed a public profile that extended beyond Salem. She was listed among the nation's mayors by the United States Conference of Mayors.[17] She was interviewed by The Politic, a publication based at Yale University, about her approach to urban governance and the particular challenges facing Salem.[18] Commonwealth Magazine also profiled Driscoll, examining her role in Salem's evolution as a city.[19]

In a 2016 reflection on her tenure and her priorities heading into 2017, Driscoll discussed the trajectory of the city under her leadership and the goals she aimed to achieve in the coming years.[2] Her approach to governance emphasized practical problem-solving, economic development, and quality-of-life improvements for Salem residents.

Lieutenant Governor of Massachusetts (2023–present)

In 2022, Driscoll ran for lieutenant governor on a joint ticket with Maura Healey, who sought the governorship. The Healey-Driscoll ticket won the general election, and both were inaugurated on January 5, 2023. Driscoll succeeded Karyn Polito, who had served as lieutenant governor under Republican Governor Charlie Baker.

Since taking office, the Healey-Driscoll administration has prioritized issues of affordability, housing, and economic competitiveness in Massachusetts.[20] Driscoll has participated in the administration's policy initiatives across a range of areas, including housing policy, emergency management, and intergovernmental relations.

In February 2026, Governor Healey and Lieutenant Governor Driscoll visited the International Volleyball Hall of Fame in Holyoke, Massachusetts, as part of campaign activities, indicating their joint campaigning for re-election.[21]

The administration has also been active in responding to state emergencies and federal policy developments. In February 2026, Governor Healey issued travel bans and activated National Guard members in response to storm conditions affecting southeastern Massachusetts and Martha's Vineyard.[22] The administration responded to federal policy issues including the Supreme Court's ruling on tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump[23] and issued protections for federal employees affected by a government shutdown, including a temporary moratorium on evictions and foreclosures.[24]

On housing policy, the administration appointed Juana Matias as Secretary of Housing and Livable Communities in February 2026, succeeding Ed Augustus after three years of leadership in that role.[25]

Personal Life

Kim Driscoll is married to Nick Driscoll. The couple has three children. The family has resided in Salem, Massachusetts, where Driscoll built her political career. Details of her personal life beyond these facts remain limited in publicly available sources.

Recognition

During her tenure as mayor of Salem, Driscoll received recognition for her work in municipal governance. In 2012, the Boston Globe reported on honors received by Driscoll related to her leadership of the city.[26] Her environmental initiatives, including Salem's Green Communities designation and the implementation of mandatory recycling and electric vehicle charging infrastructure, contributed to the city's reputation as a leader in municipal sustainability in Massachusetts.

Driscoll's profile as a mayor who focused on economic development and urban revitalization drew attention from national municipal organizations and publications. Her inclusion in the United States Conference of Mayors and interviews with publications such as The Politic and Commonwealth Magazine reflected her standing among American municipal leaders during her years as mayor of Salem.[27][28][29]

Her election as lieutenant governor in 2022 represented a significant milestone, as the Healey-Driscoll ticket marked the first time two women were elected to serve as governor and lieutenant governor of Massachusetts simultaneously.

References

  1. ↑ "Governor Maura Healey and Lt. Governor Kim Driscoll".Mass.gov.https://www.mass.gov/orgs/governor-maura-healey-and-lt-governor-kim-driscoll.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  2. ↑ 2.0 2.1 "Salem Mayor Kim Driscoll reflects on tenure, 2017 priorities".Wicked Local.http://salem.wickedlocal.com/news/20161214/salem-mayor-kim-driscoll-reflects-on-tenure-2017-priorites.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  3. ↑ "Driscoll will seek a third term".The Salem News.http://www.salemnews.com/local/x1839365560/Driscoll-will-seek-a-third-term.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  4. ↑ "We're Going to Do It Right".Footprint Salem Harbor.http://www.footprintsalemharbor.com/were-going-to-do-it-right/.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  5. ↑ "A $1B Transformation for Salem, Mass.".NECN.http://www.necn.com/news/business/A-1B-Transformation-for-Salem-Mass-305915641.html.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  6. ↑ "Salem Wharf".Salem Partnership.http://www.salempartnership.org/wharf.htm.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  7. ↑ "Tourism on the rise this year in Salem".Wicked Local.http://www.wickedlocal.com/x291606501/Tourism-on-the-rise-this-year-in-Salem.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  8. ↑ "Salem ferry sees drop in ridership".The Salem News.http://www.salemnews.com/news/local_news/salem-ferry-sees-drop-in-ridership/article_d33e3e59-9ab5-5553-9187-7b97f737e3e9.html.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  9. ↑ "Salem ferry cuts back to three days a week".The Salem News.http://www.salemnews.com/local/x1095948107/Salem-ferry-cuts-back-to-three-days-a-week.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  10. ↑ "Salem may dump ferry operator".The Salem News.http://www.salemnews.com/local/x1940327042/Salem-may-dump-ferry-operator.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  11. ↑ "MBTA Schedules and Maps — Boats".MBTA.http://www.mbta.com/schedules_and_maps/boats/.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  12. ↑ "Green Communities".Mass.gov.http://www.mass.gov/eea/energy-utilities-clean-tech/green-communities/.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  13. ↑ "Mass. awards $37M in Green Communities grants".Boston Herald.http://bostonherald.com/news_opinion/local_coverage/2013/07/mass_awards_37m_in_green_communities_grants.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  14. ↑ "Salem installs vehicle charging stations".Salem Patch.http://salem.patch.com/articles/salem-installs-vehicle-charging-stations.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  15. ↑ "Mandatory recycling begins Monday in Salem".The Salem News.http://www.salemnews.com/local/x1145373937/Mandatory-recycling-begins-Monday-in-Salem.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  16. ↑ "Salem Recycling".City of Salem.http://salem.com/Pages/SalemMA_Recycling/index.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  17. ↑ "Meet the Mayors — Mayors at a Glance".United States Conference of Mayors.http://usmayors.org/meetmayors/mayorsatglance.asp.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  18. ↑ "Interview with Kim Driscoll, Mayor of Salem, Massachusetts".The Politic.http://thepolitic.org/interview-with-kim-driscoll-mayor-of-salem-massachusetts/.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  19. ↑ "Salem Mayor Kim Driscoll".Commonwealth Magazine.https://commonwealthmagazine.org/politics/002-salem-mayor-kim-driscoll/.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  20. ↑ "Governor Maura Healey and Lt. Governor Kim Driscoll".Mass.gov.https://www.mass.gov/orgs/governor-maura-healey-and-lt-governor-kim-driscoll.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  21. ↑ "Healey, Driscoll make Holyoke campaign stop".MassLive.com.2026-02-17.https://www.masslive.com/westfieldnews/2026/02/healey-driscoll-make-holyoke-campaign-stop.html.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  22. ↑ "Governor Healey Partially Lifts State of Emergency, Adds Martha's Vineyard to Travel Ban".Mass.gov.https://www.mass.gov/news/governor-healey-partially-lifts-state-of-emergency-adds-marthas-vineyard-to-travel-ban.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  23. ↑ "Governor Healey Responds to Supreme Court Ruling that President Trump's Tariffs are Illegal".Mass.gov.https://www.mass.gov/news/governor-healey-responds-to-supreme-court-ruling-that-president-trumps-tariffs-are-illegal.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  24. ↑ "Governor Healey Issues Reminder of Eviction and Foreclosure Moratorium for Federal Employees Impacted by Government Shutdown".Mass.gov.https://www.mass.gov/news/governor-healey-issues-reminder-of-eviction-and-foreclosure-moratorium-for-federal-employees-impacted-by-government-shutdown.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  25. ↑ "Governor Healey Appoints Juana Matias as Secretary of Housing and Livable Communities".Mass.gov.https://www.mass.gov/news/governor-healey-appoints-juana-matias-as-secretary-of-housing-and-livable-communities.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  26. ↑ "Salem Mayor Kim Driscoll honored".Boston.com.http://www.boston.com/yourtown/news/salem/2012/06/salem_mayor_kim_driscoll_honor.html.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  27. ↑ "Meet the Mayors — Mayors at a Glance".United States Conference of Mayors.http://usmayors.org/meetmayors/mayorsatglance.asp.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  28. ↑ "Interview with Kim Driscoll, Mayor of Salem, Massachusetts".The Politic.http://thepolitic.org/interview-with-kim-driscoll-mayor-of-salem-massachusetts/.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  29. ↑ "Salem Mayor Kim Driscoll".Commonwealth Magazine.https://commonwealthmagazine.org/politics/002-salem-mayor-kim-driscoll/.Retrieved 2026-02-24.

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