The next state representative will be a Democrat – it is up to you, Somerville, to pick which one

It’s official. Denise Provost and Elizabeth Moroney will face off in an election for state representative next month. Two other candidates pulled papers, but never turned them in, leaving the two democrats to door knock alone this winter. The Somerville News will sponsor a debate on Dec. 15 at 4 p.m. at the Somerville Community Access Television studio in Union Square. For more information on the debate call us at (617) 666-4010.

Popular alderman kicks off state rep. campaign
By Catherine Rogers
Throughout the Elm Street headquarters, clipboards and posters adorned the tables and walls, advertising opportunities to help Denise Provost in her quest to win the special election for state representative. From sending pre-printed letters to holding signs on street corners, there is plenty to do before voting day, Jan. 10.

  About 20 people visited Denise Provost‚Äôs open house on Friday Dec. 2. Provost begins her new campaign just three weeks after she won reelection to the Somerville Board of Aldermen. This time around, Provost is seeking Sen. Pat Jehlen‚Äôs previous post in the House of Representatives.
  Jehlen, D-Somerville, recently won the special election for senator, leaving the seat open. Now, two local Democrats will battle it out to become Somerville‚Äôs next state representative.
  In November, Provost received more votes than any other candidate in the Alderman-at-Large race. She has served on the board for almost six years. Somerville resident Marty Martinez was defeated in the recent aldermen election. Now he is serving as Provost‚Äôs field coordinator.
  ‚ÄúDenise stands for things that I‚Äôd like to see change,‚Äù Martinez said. ‚ÄúI‚Äôm glad to see her have an opportunity to voice her concern.‚Äù
    Despite recent popularity at the polls, Campaign Manager Ed Marin said Provost‚Äôs supporters must continue to work diligently from now until the election.
   ‚ÄúWe know we‚Äôre not taking anything for granted,‚Äù he said, standing between two sign-up stations for the campaign during the open house.
    Bowls of candy, popcorn, and chips sat undisturbed atop three tables covered with lime green cloths, but the mailing table remained overcrowded. Volunteers shuffled papers for the duration of the open house, mechanically folding, stuffing, and labeling Provost‚Äôs promotional material.       Longtime supporters and Somerville residents Delia Marshall and Walter Booth rotated through the mailing table‚Äôs tasks, and not without undue credit.
    ‚ÄúI took this photo of Denise and her family,‚Äù said Booth proudly, pointing to a small flier featuring the grinning Provosts, her husband, and two daughters, Emma, 16, and Eliza, 8.
      As the oldest of five siblings, private attorney, and neighborhood activist, Provost said works hard to balance her family, career, and political involvements.
      ‚ÄúI‚Äôm most productive when I‚Äôm busy,‚Äù she said.