Dear Friend,
I am supporting Pat Jehlen for State Senate, and I'd like to tell you why.
I first got to know Pat when she served on the Somerville School Committee. Even before I met her, I knew Pat's reputation as an elected official who courageously did the right thing, even in defiance of political machines. She consistently worked to professionalize public education in Somerville, and to put the interests of children first - from the School Superintendent's office to the classroom.
Eventually I got to know Pat personally. I learned how deeply she was involved in the community, and in activities that improved the lives of children in and out of school. Then, in 1989, a neighbor told me that Pat was thinking of running for an open seat as State Representative, and I spoke the fateful words, "If she runs, I'll help her!"
In 1990, I found myself hard at work on Pat's campaign. Not one of the city's knowledgeable political insiders thought she had the slightest chance of winning. Win she did; and in 1991, she was sworn in to the Massachusetts House of Representatives, a position in which she still serves.
In those years, Pat has helped to lead successful struggles for increased access to health care, affordable housing, and employment benefits for part-time workers. She has been fiscally responsible, opposing corporate tax giveaways, and government boondoggles, such as the South Boston Convention Center, and subsidies for racetrack owners. She has been a staunch supporter of equal marriage, public health and education, and a clean environment.
Until Governor Romney began his economic warfare against all the cities and towns of Massachusetts by slashing local aid, Pat was able to secure generous local aid packages for Somerville each year. Last year, she got funding for the Green Line Extension placed in the House version of the state's Transportation Bond Bill. Pat was able to break the bureaucratic logjam over the Lowell Street Bridge, getting that project going, and making sure that pedestrian access was guaranteed during construction.
What has been just as important to me as Pat's votes is the kind of person she is, and what motivates her to do what she does. She is someone who lives out her principles in daily life, who always considers and helps the poor, the excluded, or the oppressed. She has been my personal inspiration for getting involved in politics.
I have never seen in Pat the hunger for any kind of power except the power to do good. Her personal life is free from materialism, and full of generosity. I have known her and her family for years now, and I am confident in my assessment of her character.
The primary election will be held on Tuesday, August 30, and I would ask you to cast your vote that day for Pat Jehlen. If you will be on vacation, I hope that you will request an absentee ballot, or vote in person at City Hall before you leave. Voters are entitled to do as soon as the ballots have been printed - probably some time in early August.
If you have any specific questions for Pat, contact her directly at 617-618-1990. Pat has received dozens of endorsements in this race, which you can learn about by calling the number above, or by visiting Pat's website.
I very much hope that you will support Pat, and will encourage your family, friends and neighbors to do the same.
Best regards,