Tag Archives: State Senate

Elections

State Senator John Cronin Announces Bid for Third Term

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State Senator John J. Cronin has officially declared his intention to seek reelection for a third term in the Massachusetts Senate, as announced in a press release shared today.

Cronin, a distinguished figure in North Central Massachusetts, highlighted significant accomplishments during his tenure, including substantial increases in state funding for public schools and road infrastructure. Notably, under his leadership, bus fares were made free, and crucial investments were secured for housing production. Additionally, Cronin emphasized his role in facilitating a substantial tax cut benefiting working and middle-class families, totaling $1 billion.

Expressing his commitment to ongoing progress, Cronin stated, “There is so much more to accomplish by working together, and I really feel like our collective work is just getting started to move North Central forward.”

Endorsements for Cronin’s reelection bid have poured in from all six state representatives within his Senate District. Reflecting on the collaborative spirit of public service, Cronin expressed pride in the level of cooperation his office has fostered across various levels of government. He stressed the importance of elected officials prioritizing problem-solving and effective constituent service, urging a shift away from divisive politics.

Cronin’s advocacy and dedication have earned him accolades from various quarters. In 2021, the Disabled American Veterans of Massachusetts recognized him as legislator of the year for his tireless efforts in supporting veterans statewide. The following year, MassBioEd honored him for his leadership in creating pathways for disadvantaged youth in the life sciences sector.

A graduate of West Point and Suffolk University Law School, Cronin brings a wealth of experience to his role as a state senator. His background as a U.S. Army Infantry combat veteran, including service in Afghanistan, underscores his commitment to public service and the well-being of his constituents.

Within the Massachusetts Senate, Cronin holds prominent positions, serving as Senate Chair of the Gateway Cities Caucus, Chairman of the Joint Committee on Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure, Vice-Chair of Healthcare Financing, and member of the Ways and Means Committee.

As the youngest member of the chamber, Cronin continues to champion initiatives aimed at advancing the interests of North Central Massachusetts while advocating for bipartisan collaboration and pragmatic solutions to address the challenges facing the region.

Cronin’s reelection bid signifies a commitment to building on past achievements and steering Massachusetts forward with vision and purpose. With endorsements from fellow legislators and a track record of effective leadership, Cronin aims to continue serving as a dedicated voice for the constituents of his Senate District.

Elections

State Senator Ray Aguilar Files for Re-Election, Pledges Continued Service to District 35

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State Senator Ray Aguilar officially filed with Secretary of State Bob Evnen to seek re-election, aiming to continue representing the people of District 35 in the Nebraska Legislature.

In his announcement, Aguilar expressed his commitment to building on a positive record of accomplishments for the hard-working residents of Grand Island. Citing a dedication to education, family options, pro-life values, support for law enforcement and veterans, and tax reduction, Aguilar emphasized his efforts to make a meaningful impact in the lives of his constituents.

A Record of Accomplishments

A significant highlight of Aguilar’s tenure includes his vote for the largest tax relief plan in Nebraska’s history. He not only supported legislation to cut and reform the tax code but also played a pivotal role in the creation of the Property Tax Relief Fund. This fund is designed to alleviate property tax burdens on seniors, veterans, small businesses, and working families. The result of these tax reform initiatives has been an impressive $1.7 billion in property tax relief, a 100% state income tax exemption for military retirement benefits, and a projected 50% state income tax exemption for social security benefits by 2025.

Aguilar’s dedication to supporting veterans is evident in his collaboration with veteran organizations, community leaders, and the Governor to introduce Legislative Bill 80. This bill secured $8 million dollars to build the Nebraska Veterans Cemetery at Grand Island, demonstrating his commitment to honoring those who have served the nation.

Experience and Leadership

Chairing the Executive Board of the Nebraska Legislature and serving on the Banking, Commerce and Insurance Committee, as well as the Government, Military and Veterans Affairs Committee, Aguilar brings extensive experience to the table. Having previously served as the State Senator from District 35 from 1999 to 2008 and successfully securing re-election in 2020, Aguilar has proven his dedication to the people.

Looking Ahead

Looking ahead, Aguilar outlined key priorities, including continued advocacy for property tax relief, a focus on ensuring quality education for Nebraska students, and providing a strong voice for veterans and taxpayers in his district.

Get Involved

As a registered Republican, Senator Aguilar, who has been married to his wife Susan for 50 years and is a father of nine children, invites residents to learn more about his achievements and get involved in his re-election campaign through his official website, senatorrayaguilar.com.

As the political landscape evolves, Aguilar’s commitment to representing the interests of his constituents remains steadfast, promising a continuation of positive and impactful contributions to the Grand Island community.

Elections

Senator Henry Ingwersen Announces Re-Election Bid for Senate District 32

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In a statement released on January 18, State Senator Henry Ingwersen officially declared his candidacy for re-election to represent Senate District 32, encompassing the vibrant towns of Arundel, Biddeford, Dayton, Hollis, and Lyman in York County. An accomplished legislator, dedicated educator, small business owner, and devoted family man, Ingwersen aims to continue his service to the people of Maine.

Reflecting on his current term, Senator Ingwersen highlighted accomplishments in delivering property tax relief for older Mainers and enacting Paid Family and Medical Leave to support working families. Moreover, he played a pivotal role in passing crucial legislation to address environmental concerns, particularly in response to the PFAS crisis.

Among his notable achievements is the advocacy for LD 315, ‘An Act To Provide Funding for Drought Relief and Other Programs Benefiting Maine Farmers.’ This legislation demonstrates Senator Ingwersen’s commitment to supporting Maine’s agricultural community by addressing challenges related to water access. The initiative aims to collaborate with farmers, assisting them in establishing sustainable irrigation systems to navigate the complexities of efficient and reliable water sources.

While expressing gratitude for the progress made, Senator Ingwersen emphasized that there is more work to be done to ensure every Mainer has the opportunity to work, raise families, and lead healthy lives. He expressed his unwavering commitment to guiding the state in a direction that fosters equal opportunities for all residents.

Senator Ingwersen, who was first elected to the Maine Senate in November 2022, previously served in the Maine House from 2018 to 2020. Currently serving as the Senate chair of the Agriculture, Conservation, and Forestry Committee and as a member of the Health and Human Services Committee, he brings a wealth of legislative experience to the table.

Beyond his legislative duties, Senator Ingwersen is an active member of the Board of Directors of the Arundel Conservation Trust, demonstrating his commitment to environmental conservation at the local level.

With a master’s degree in Educational Leadership from the University of Southern Maine, Senator Ingwersen has a rich background in education, having served as an educator and teacher leader for 25 years. Alongside his professional accomplishments, he and his wife Christine celebrate 49 years of marriage. The couple has three daughters and 12 grandchildren, all residing in Maine. They are also beekeepers on their family farm in Arundel, highlighting the senator’s dedication to both public service and sustainable agricultural practices.

As Senator Ingwersen embarks on his re-election campaign, his multifaceted experience positions him as a seasoned candidate with a genuine commitment to the well-being of Maine’s residents. With a proven track record of legislative accomplishments and a vision for the future, Senator Henry Ingwersen stands ready to continue serving Senate District 32 with integrity and dedication.

Elections

Senator Lea Webb Launches Re-election Campaign

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In a resounding declaration of her commitment to public service, New York State Senator Lea Webb has officially announced her re-election campaign for the 52nd Senate District. Webb, who initially claimed the seat in 2022, commenced her campaign at the Argos Warehouse & Lounge in Ithaca on January 20, surrounded by supporters eager to champion her achievements from the past term and envision the path forward.

During her first year as Chair of the Senate Committee on Women’s Issues, Senator Webb took a leading role in advancing a remarkable 21 bills addressing a spectrum of concerns impacting women. Notable among these measures were initiatives to enhance accessibility to menstrual products, improve maternity health services, reinforce reproductive rights, and implement stringent measures against human trafficking.

At a recent campaign event, Webb expressed gratitude for the support and emphasized the urgency of her work in the Senate, stating, “I really understand what’s at stake for our communities, working families. And it is imperative that we work together to truly deliver a better quality of life for everyone, not only in Senate District 52 but across the state.”

Webb highlighted her pivotal role in the Senate Committee on Women’s Issues, celebrating the passage of 24 bills, with eight of them already signed into law. She proudly sponsored a bill establishing a task force on missing girls and women of color, addressing critical public safety issues such as domestic violence and the concerning trend of Black and Indigenous women and girls going missing and being murdered.

Webb collaborated with Assemblymember Anna Kelles to introduce a bill extending insurance to vehicle-sharing nonprofits like Ithaca Carshare, saving the longstanding program from potential shutdown. The senator’s dedication to her constituents also manifested in legislation addressing environmental concerns in Tompkins County, including a bill requiring a comprehensive environmental impact study of the salt mine under Cayuga Lake.

The senator, who made history as the first Black woman elected to the 52nd Senate District, addressed attendees with a reflection on her candidacy announcement in 2022. She expressed gratitude for the continued support, highlighting the significance of her role in the first all-women’s group of freshman senators in the state’s history.

Local organizers and community leaders, including Linda Hoffman, Chair of the Tompkins County Democratic Committee, Leslyn McBean-Clairborne, Director of the Greater Ithaca Activities Center, Nia Nunn, President of the Board at Southside Community Center, and Ruth Groff, Lansing Town Supervisor, participated in the event. Emphasizing the importance of unity in the face of potential challenges, speakers urged the community to rally together to ensure Webb’s victory in the upcoming election.

McBean-Clairborne praised Webb for “demonstrating what it means to be ‘Black woman magic,'” acknowledging the senator’s tireless efforts in serving her community. Senator Webb, in turn, encouraged everyone to exercise their voice and vote in the upcoming elections, underscoring the critical role of civic engagement.

Before joining the Senate, Senator Webb served as a Binghamton City Councilmember, addressing vital issues affecting families in her community. Her initiatives ranged from revitalizing blighted properties to tackling food desert issues through the establishment of community gardens.

A proud graduate of Binghamton public schools and a first-generation graduate of SUNY Broome and Binghamton University, Senator Webb’s background as an educator at Binghamton University reflects her commitment to diversity and inclusion. Her journey, rooted in the Southern Tier, mirrors a lifelong dedication to fostering inclusivity and creating positive change.

As the election for the senate seat approaches in November, Senator Lea Webb stands poised to continue her impactful advocacy for the people of the 52nd Senate District, backed by a proven record of accomplishments and a steadfast commitment to the well-being of her constituents.

Elections

State Sen. Gene Yaw Announces Re-Election Bid

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In a recent press release, State Sen. Gene Yaw, a dedicated Republican hailing from Loyalsock Township, has officially declared his intention to run for re-election this year. Serving the residents of Bradford, Lycoming, Sullivan, Tioga, and Union counties, Senator Yaw vows to continue his unwavering commitment to their interests.

“I was elected to protect and promote the interests that are important to the people of our region,” Senator Yaw emphasized. “I work for the people of our district, not the Harrisburg bureaucracy or special interests.”

With a track record reflecting his dedication to the community, Senator Yaw has earned accolades for his support of small businesses. The National Federation of Independent Business Award recognizes his voting record in favor of small enterprises throughout the Commonwealth. Moreover, Americans for Prosperity-Pennsylvania acknowledged Yaw for his commitment to lower taxes and limited government, underscoring his dedication to conservative principles.

Senator Yaw, representing the 23rd District since 2009, is renowned for his leadership in energy-related matters, small business advocacy, and rural affairs. As the chairman of the Environmental Resources and Energy Committee and vice-chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, he has played a crucial role in legislation and funding to enhance school safety.

A recipient of the “Legislator of the Year” award from the Pennsylvania Office of Rural Health, Senator Yaw has been a prominent figure in addressing the heroin epidemic plaguing the Commonwealth. His multifaceted role includes membership in committees such as Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Banking and Insurance, Community, Economic & Recreational Development, Rules and Executive Nominations, and Senate Majority Policy.

Notably, Senator Yaw has been a strong advocate for maintaining the natural gas drilling impact fee, showcasing his commitment to responsible energy policies. His extensive efforts to combat the opioid crisis in Pennsylvania and neighboring states underscore his dedication to public health and safety.

In reflecting on his stance on key issues, Senator Yaw emphasized his opposition to the legalization and taxation of recreational marijuana in Pennsylvania. However, he acknowledged the need to keep an open mind, considering the potential revenue and the evolving opinions within the legislature.

On the topic of voter ID laws, Senator Yaw has been a vocal proponent of stringent measures, expressing skepticism about large numbers of disenfranchised voters if tougher ID laws are imposed.

Senator Yaw, a United States Army veteran, brings a wealth of experience to his role. Prior to his tenure in the Senate, he served as Lycoming County solicitor for 17 years and received the County Solicitor of the Year award in 2004. His legal expertise extends to his role as general counsel to the Pennsylvania College of Technology, where he currently serves as Chairman of the Board of Directors.

With a solid educational background, Senator Yaw is a proud graduate of Montoursville High School, attended Bucknell University, and earned degrees from Lycoming College and the American University School of Law in Washington, D.C.

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Rep. Dawn Keefer Announces Candidacy for State Senate

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Pennsylvania Republican state Representative Dawn Keefer has officially declared her candidacy for the 31st District Senate seat, currently held by outgoing Senator Mike Regan. Regan recently announced that he would not seek reelection, paving the way for Keefer to step forward and vie for the crucial position.

Representative Keefer, a staunch conservative hailing from Franklin Township in York County, has been serving in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives since 2016. Notably, she made headlines last year for co-founding the Pennsylvania Freedom Caucus, a far-right caucus affiliated with the State House Freedom Caucus Network, led by former White House Chief of Staff Mark Meadows. This influential network has been a platform for conservative lawmakers advocating for limited government and constitutional principles.

The 31st District, which encompasses parts of Cumberland and York Counties, including key areas like Lemoyne, Mechanicsburg, Lower Allen, and York, has been represented by Senator Mike Regan, who has decided not to seek reelection. In response to this vacancy, Keefer has thrown her hat into the ring, citing her proven record of accomplishments and commitment to advancing conservative principles.

Representative Keefer, who currently represents the 92nd District in the House, highlighted her dedication to protecting taxpayers, advocating for government reforms to limit the power of politicians, and championing policies to spur economic growth. Her emphasis on reducing regulation and license expansions, coupled with defending constitutional rights, has resonated with voters and formed the cornerstone of her political platform.

“I have honored my pledge to fight for families, taxpayers, and our rights, but there is more to do,” stated Keefer in a press release. “As State Representative, I have led the fight for commonsense policies that remove government as a barrier to economic growth in our Commonwealth.”

Keefer’s legislative agenda includes efforts to eliminate nuisance tax rules, lower the corporate net income tax, and halt licensing expansions. Her overarching goal is to create an environment that attracts businesses, offering highly sought-after jobs and opportunities for the people of Pennsylvania. She recognizes the need to compete with other states for talent and economic growth, urging a focus on policies that make Pennsylvania an attractive destination for both businesses and residents.

“I am running for the State Senate because there is much more to be done, and I want to use my experience to ensure Pennsylvania becomes the best place to live, work, and raise a family,” asserted Keefer, outlining her vision for the future of the state.

Keefer’s announcement comes on the heels of her successful reelection bid in 2022, where she secured over 70% of the vote in her House district. Notably, she has made the decision not to simultaneously run for reelection to her House seat, signaling her singular focus on pursuing the Senate position and continuing her efforts to shape Pennsylvania’s political landscape.

The upcoming primary election on April 23 and the general election on November 5 will be crucial milestones in determining the trajectory of Pennsylvania’s political representation. The 31st District, with its diverse and dynamic composition, is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the state’s legislative direction.

As the political landscape evolves, Keefer’s candidacy represents a continuity of conservative values and a commitment to addressing the pressing issues facing Pennsylvania. Her experience, combined with her track record of success in the House, positions her as a formidable candidate capable of navigating the complexities of state governance.

In the coming months, voters in the 31st District will have the opportunity to assess Keefer’s candidacy and determine whether her vision aligns with their aspirations for the future of Pennsylvania. With the primary election just around the corner on April 23, the race for the 31st District Senate seat promises to be a focal point of political discourse and a barometer of the state’s direction in the years to come.