By George P. Hassett

The challenger and only candidate on the ballot for the State Rep. seat that covers parts of West Somerville and Winter Hill, blasted House Speaker Sal DiMasi and said at the July 25th Somerville News contributor’s meeting that he would support casino gambling if elected.

Ward 7 Alderman Bob Trane is challenging incumbent State Rep. Carl Sciortino for his seat Sept. 16. Sciortino is running a sticker campaign after, he said, his nomination papers were stolen from his State house office.

At Friday’s meeting, Trane criticized Sciortino for aligning himself with DiMasi.

“I would never be associated with someone like that,” Trane said. “His unethical behavior has embarrassed the entire House.” Trane said that if elected, he would support new leadership.

Casino gambling is coming to Massachusetts regardless of what legislators do, Trane said. “We need to get out in front of this and make sure the state gets its fair share,” he said.

Sciortino opposed Gov. Deval Patrick’s plan to build casinos. Trane said he was surprised Patrick spoke at a Sciortino fundraiser last week. ‚ÄúI think if he knew who he was supporting he would not have done it,‚Äù he said.