Though Marty Meehan’s departure from Congress is a sad event, it presents us with a wonderful opportunity to choose our next congressman. For me, as state senator for the Middlesex and Worcester District, the choice is easy: Jamie Eldridge. I can think of no better candidate; we are truly lucky to have him. Jamie Eldridge is the type of candidate who will stand up to President Bush, Republicans, and even some Democrats to preserve our rights.
I had the pleasure of observing Jamie in action at an early stage in his community service. He led an effort to preserve Acton’s environment by co-founding Acton Cleanup Day. He became the chairman of both the Acton Housing Authority and the Acton Democratic Committee. In 1998 and again in 2000, I was honored to have Jamie manage my successful reelection campaigns. After graduating from law school, he became a legal aid attorney in Lowell and Lawrence for a nonprofit organization that provides free legal services to the poor and the elderly.
In 2002, Jamie took the opportunity to run as a Clean Elections candidate for the newly redistricted 37th Middlesex District. Jamie showed his dedication and determination by knocking on doors six hours a day, six day a week.
I have seen firsthand how Jamie works tirelessly to advocate for his constituents and how he stands up for his principles. Jamie led the effort to create Individual Development Accounts (IDAs), which provide matching funds for low-income workers to save money in order to buy a home, start a business, or pay for college. Jamie worked with town officials and local activists to craft a proposal fixing significant inequities in Chapter 70 education funding, resulting in increased funding throughout the state. In the State House, as a division whip, Jamie led the fight to maintain the legality of same-sex marriage.
In Congress, Jamie will continue to have the courage to lead and will serve as model for his colleagues, just as he has in the State House, and will serve as a true advocate for the people.
Senator Pam Resor
Acton
