BOSTON—Attorney General Andrea Campbell is throwing her hat back into the ring, boldly announcing her bid for re-election in 2026. This comes amid a tumultuous term marked by clashes with the federal government and crucial consumer protection efforts.

In a rallying cry delivered in Boston’s South End, where she spent her formative years, Campbell declared, "Our work is far from done. Too many families are still struggling to live paycheck to paycheck." Her commitment to addressing economic hardship is clear, as she aims to continue her fight for the underprivileged.

Since taking office in January 2023, Campbell has taken an aggressive stance against federal policies, engaging in nearly 40 lawsuits against the Trump administration. These legal battles have reportedly protected a staggering $3.01 billion of the $3.18 billion targeted by Trump, a remarkable figure that underscores her role in safeguarding state interests.

Campbell has also carved out new initiatives within her office, including establishing a Reproductive Justice Unit and an Elder Justice Unit, both aimed at addressing specific societal issues. Her office has achieved notable legal victories, securing guilty verdicts against a sex trafficking ring operating in the Boston area and launching an investigation into the Boston Police Department’s gang unit over allegations of racial bias.

However, not all has been smooth sailing. Local officials have pushed back against her enforcement of the MBTA Communities Act, a contentious law requiring cities to zone for multifamily housing near public transport. Campbell's lawsuit against the town of Milton for non-compliance raised eyebrows, with critics claiming she overstepped her authority. Yet, the Supreme Judicial Court upheld the law, affirming her legal power to enforce it.

Financially, Campbell's office has made significant strides in consumer protection, returning $32 million to underpaid workers and over $400 million to families through efforts to prevent utility rate hikes. This track record is likely to play a critical role in her re-election campaign as she emphasizes her dedication to the people of Massachusetts.

Despite her achievements, Campbell has faced scrutiny from political adversaries, including State Auditor Diana DiZoglio, who accused her of neglecting a voter-approved audit of the Legislature. Campbell defended her position, citing potential constitutional limits on her authority to compel compliance.

Her campaign announcement also touched on her deeply personal background, sharing the hardships of her upbringing in Boston—a story marked by loss and resilience. "I didn’t run for office because I thought it would be easy," she stated, emphasizing that her life experiences fuel her commitment to serve.

As the election cycle heats up, all eyes will be on Campbell's strategies and responses to ongoing criticisms. Will she be able to maintain the momentum she’s built in the face of mounting challenges? The battle for re-election promises to be a fierce one.