I’d like to thank Patch for giving me the opportunity to share some thoughts with the voters of the 24^th Middlesex District.  As the Democratic candidate in the race to succeed Will Brownsberger in the Massachusetts House of Representatives, I’ve been fortunate enough to receive some strong endorsements for my candidacy—including Will’s.  But the most meaningful support I have received has come from the many people whom I’ve met during my months of door-to-door campaigning. 

Since I began my campaign in March, I have knocked on nearly 3,000 doors in the 24^th Middlesex District (which incorporates Belmont and parts of North Cambridge along with East Arlington).  I’ve learned so much about what truly matters to the district’s residents.  We are justifiably proud of the wonderful communities we live in—and we’re anxious to make sure that their many great qualities are preserved for our future and our children’s futures. 

The State Representative position is a critical element in preserving the quality of life that each of our communities enjoy.  An effective state representative must fight for our fair share of the state’s local aid funds for municipal services, increased financial support for schools (including special education), and other critical services like the MBTA. 

More broadly, though, a state representative must be a responsive servant to all the district’s constituents.  Will Brownsberger has set the “gold standard” for communicating with, responding to, and being accountable to the residents of the 24^th Middlesex district.  Having met so many people in the district personally, I have every intention of delivering the same level of performance as your State Representative. 

I’m seeking this office because I believe in public service and because I believe that our system of government provides tremendous opportunities for citizens across the state, I also believe that my candidacy offers the best chance to do the most good.

Clearly, we face significant challenges.  I understand that times are not easy for everyone, and are pretty difficult for a lot of us.  I get it—like you, I have bills to pay and a mortgage on my house.  But the good news is there are practical solutions to the problems we face -- solutions that require independent thinking and a creative approach.

I have substantial experience in both the public and private sectors.  As a business lawyer who has helped businesses--large and small--solve complex problems, I understand the importance of fiscal responsibility and practical problem-solving. Through my work in government -- including at the White House, on Capitol Hill, at the EPA and with a federal judge -- I understand how policy is formed and how important our institutions of government are for ensuring social justice and opportunity for all.

I'll never forget that government can do great good for those in need.  When I was twelve years old, my father passed away suddenly and we relied in part on his Social Security survivor's benefits. The social safety net, at both the federal and state level, is critical; and I have first-hand experience of seeing the benefits that a just and decent government can bring.

My candidacy offers voters in the 24^th Middlesex District the best of both worlds. On the one hand, I'm a fresh voice from outside the system. While I have a broad amount of significant and relevant experience, I have never held elective office before and will be unafraid to challenge the status quo. In addition, while a new voice, I'll be a member of the majority party in the Legislature, ensuring that Belmont, East Arlington, and North Cambridge have a seat at the table when critical decisions about our future are being made.

This campaign has been a lot of hard work, but it’s been immensely rewarding and enjoyable for me.  Together, we can look forward to a better future for our district and all its residents.  With all this in mind, and with confidence in that future, I ask for your support.