Sen. Fred Berry the Senate Majority Leader who is not seeking reelection this year has made his choice known in a statement released to the media.
Sen. Berry stated: “To be effective in the State Senate requires a combination of experience, intelligence and the ability to work with others to solve problems for the people you represent. I have known the candidates seeking this office for many years. I have had the opportunity to speak with them and observe their campaigns. Each has specific skills to offer. But, I believe City Councilor Joan Lovely has the attributes needed to most effectively serve the people of the 2nd Essex District. As an 8-term city councilor and longtime community leader, Joan knows what local communities need from the state government. She has demonstrated both compassion and political courage in dealing with tight municipal budgets and providing vital services to her community. Her experience as a city councilor, and an attorney, and combined with her community work with local business, senior citizens, schools and veterans will make her a strong State Senator.”
“ I have been reflecting on this election for many weeks. I am concerned that Joan Lovely’s two opponents would have difficulty being effective for all people in this district. One candidate appears to have sold his soul to the unions. In these tough times, with the tough problems we face, it is important for a Senator to consider many opinions. It is important to have unions’ opinions at the table, but it should not be just union opinions being heard. And the other candidate has a history of caring more about finding fault with others than working with others to find solutions to serious problems.”
“Joan Lovely’s hard work and perseverance have earned my respect and the respect of her community. Joan Lovely always gives 100% to achieve positive results and she will be a State Senator that Beverly, Danvers, Peabody, Salem and Topsfield can always count on to work hard for them at the State House. I will cast my vote for Joan Lovely to become the next State Senator for the 2nd Essex.”
As someone who will be extremely sorry to see Fred Berry leave the legislature, I think he made the best choice in endorsing Joan Lovely. They share the same concerns about many issues and she will work hard to continue what he has started especially in human services.