Sen. John F. Kerry (D-Mass.) knows that the outcome of his bid for re-election next month hinges upon his ability to gain the favor of the Bay State's liberal majority.

Though securing the allegiance of these voters would be a moot point for Sen. Edward M. Kennedy '54-'56 (D-Mass.) or another liberal standard-bearer, it is proving to be a difficult task for Kerry, even with his recent surge in the polls.

Kerry's difficulties come in part because he is being challenged by a popular Republican governor.

William F. Weld '66 has spent his six years in the State House building bridges both to and for state legislators and municipal officials--the backbone of the Massachusetts Democratic machine.

As a result of this effort, many Massachusetts Democrats have developed a deep sense of respect for the red-headed Republican.

"Our working relationship is pleasant and productive," says state Sen. Mark Montigny (D-New Bed-ford). "It's not like I have to hold my nose to work with the guy."

Montigny, whose district includes one of the commonwealth's notorious liberal enclaves, has much to show for his work with the governor.

Though Kerry has been an advocate for New Bedford, the Weld administration continues to pour millions of dollars into the city.

In recent months, Weld has visited New Bedford to announce grants for sewer rate relief, a major restoration of a high school, research projects for the city's ailing fishing industry and a feasibility study for a major urban aquarium.

Montigny and other New Bedford Democrats worked closely with Weld on all of these projects.

Because of Weld's record in New Bedford, Democratic Mayor Rosemary Tierney has not actively campaigned for Kerry.

She was conspicuously absent at a historic visit on Kerry's behalf by President Clinton in neighboring Fall River on Saturday.

Other Democratic politicians around the state are facing the same problem of whether to support the nominee of their party or the governor who has delivered for them.

In September, Democratic city officials from Springfield, Chicopee, Fall River, Haverhill and Revere all endorsed Weld.

Despite the dissension, state party leaders are not worried.