William Q. MacLean Jr.
American politician
William Q. "Biff" MacLean Jr., a prominent figure in Massachusetts politics for over three decades, passed away on February 21, 2026, at the age of 91. Born in New Bedford, Massachusetts, on November 4, 1934, MacLean dedicated a significant portion of his life to public service, leaving an indelible mark on the legislative landscape of the Commonwealth. He was known for his astute political skills and his ability to navigate complex legislative processes.
MacLean's political career began in 1960 when he was elected to the Fairhaven School Committee and, concurrently, to the Massachusetts House of Representatives. He served in the House from 1961 to 1981, steadily rising through the ranks. His leadership qualities were recognized early, leading to his appointment as House Majority Whip in 1973 and then as House Majority Leader in 1975. During his tenure, he earned the nickname "Mr. December" for his remarkable ability to pass bills in the final month of a legislative session.
In 1981, MacLean successfully transitioned to the Massachusetts Senate, where he continued to serve until 1993. His time in the legislature was marked by a strong focus on constituent needs and a reputation for effective, albeit sometimes controversial, advocacy. He was a Democrat from Fairhaven and remained a powerful voice for his district throughout his career.
Later in his career, MacLean faced legal challenges, pleading guilty to a conflict-of-interest law violation in 1993, which resulted in the forfeiture of his state pension. Despite this, his earlier contributions to the state were recognized when he was inducted into the Fairhaven High School Hall of Fame in 2017, acknowledging his athletic achievements and political prominence.
William Q. MacLean Jr. will be remembered as a dedicated public servant who shaped Massachusetts policy for many years. His legacy includes a long and impactful career in both the House and Senate, where his legislative prowess earned him both admiration and a distinctive nickname. He is survived by his family and the memory of a life deeply intertwined with the political fabric of Massachusetts.