UPDATED: State House News Reports Election Dates
UPDATED Again: …And the dates are official. Oct 8 & Nov. 5.
I have to say it is rare that we out here in Western Mass get this kind of attention from anyone. However, because Mike Knapik’s resignation has statewide implications (mostly for the GOP) we are getting it in spades today. The fact is, and I say this as a Springfield resident, unless the city is careening toward fiscal calamity, it can be tough to get the attention out here. Plus, there are simply more BMGers in the East, just like population. And those of us that are from the 413, like me, do not post often enough.
But with the election fever seizing Boston, the northwest suburbs, and Worcester (plus the regularly scheduled, municipal elections), we out here thought we only had to endure the special Senate race (and then our municipal elections. WRONG!
Thank you Senator Knapik!
Now I want to share with you my work over at Western Mass Politics & Insight. I have written up a piece that includes prospective candidates, historical perspective and what Dems need to win. I would ask you to take a look and give me your thoughts, if any.
Now I do not just want to shill for myself so here is a bit of perspective on the area universe of potential (and likelihood) of candidates entering. I have only included elected or very high-profile figures. Therefore, most towns have nobody, but perhaps certain Select Members, especially if they can self-fund, could have a chance, but there is likely too much ground to cover in the cities.
Agawam
Mayor Richard Cohen-D: Very Unlikely. Running for reelection.
Former Mayor Susan Dawson-D: Very Unlikely. Running for City Council
Former State Rep. Rosemary Sandlin-D: Very Unlikely. Taking a break from politics.
Chicopee
Mayor Michael Bissonnette: Declined. Running for reelection.
State Rep. Joe Wagner: No word yet: My money says no after all these years staying put.
Easthampton
Mayor Mike Tautznik-D: Running. Had already declined reelection as mayor.
Granville
None:
Holyoke
Mayor Alex Morse: Declined. Running for reelection.
Ward 2 Councilor Anthony Soto: Mentioned. Based on my reporting, no word one way or the other.
Treasurer Jon Lumbra: Declined. Running for reelection
State Rep Aaron Vega: Mentioned and considering. Reporting seems to lean no.
Former Legislative aide Pat Beaudry: Looking at it. My gut leans no. Timing may not be ideal.
I’d add that there are a number of potential other Councilors, but none other have come across my desk/computer.
Montgomery
None
Russell
None
Southampton
None
Southwick
Rep. Nick Boldyga: No word yet. Hard to imagine he’s not considering. Incredibly…um…ambitious? I think that works.
Westfield
Mayor Dan Knapik: Very Unlikely: Running for reelection
State Rep. Don Humason: Running
City Councilor Brian Sullivan: Possible, mentioned. However, on the ballot for reelection.
School Committee Member Kevin Sullivan: Possible, but not mentioned yet. Not up for reelection and has money in OCPF account from last year.
Sec. Richard Sullivan: Possible, but not mentioned yet. Former mayor of city, but to run, he’d have to break promise to stay with Gov. Patrick until end of term.
City Councilor Agma Sweeney: Unlikely, not mentioned, not sure if running for reelection. Congressional to Neal & Olver and first Hispanic Councilor in Westfield (I think).
And there you have it! Dates! (probably)
Special election to replace @SenatorKnapik will be held on Nov. 5, primary on Tues. Oct. 8, per legis source. Official order tomorrow.
— Matthew Murphy (@SHNSMurphy) August 7, 2013
came to one of my board meetings to talk about how Easthampton managed to get solar installed on its landfill. The project, which was his baby, was cutting edge at the time. His enthusiasm was genuine and infectious. I found him to be practical and impressive. An enthusiastic wonk.