As an active member of Progressive Massachusetts who happens to live in the 5th Middlesex state senate district, I was very pleased to see this announcement in my inbox today:
Our members have overwhelmingly endorsed Representative Jason Lewis for State Senate in the Fifth Middlesex. One [member] described Jason as “a bold progressive with a strong commitment to the environment and economic justice” – and his thoughtful questionnaire truly reflected that view.
I would really encourage everyone to read Jason’s impressive response to the Progressive Mass questionnaire [PDF] to fully understand why he is *the* progressive candidate in this race. For example, several times when asked about a particular piece of progressive legislation, he not only indicated his strong support but mentioned that he is the lead sponsor on the issue (earned/paid sick leave, Chapter 70 education reform, single payer health care, housing for the intellectually disabled). That’s the kind of leader we need for this district.
When reached about the news, Representative Lewis responded, “Thank you, thank you all – this endorsement means so much to me. As you know, what is at stake in this election is whether we will be successful in promoting our shared progressive values, and continuing to work on the issues that matter to us and the prosperity of the Commonwealth. I’ve enjoyed working side by side with you in the past, and only with your help can we continue to be successful in this special Democratic primary.”
Of all the various special elections that will be held on March 4, this was the only race in which a candidate received 60% or more of Progressive Mass membership’s support, which is the threshold for official endorsement.
Side note: In those races where Progressive Mass made no endorsement, the candidate questionnaires for all candidates are available on line, so if you live in or know anyone who lives in these districts, these are a great resource available here.
Progressive Mass members will be contributing financially and helping to get out the vote for Jason between now and March 4th.
As someone who’s been canvassing and phone calling quite a bit for Jason over the past few months, I’m glad to see Progressive Mass join the impressive and growing list of groups and individuals who’ve endorsed Jason in this race. The more the merrier!
