A Westfield native, John graduated from Westfield High School and earned a bachelor of arts in political science from the University of South Florida and a juris doctor from Suffolk University Law School in Boston. John established an impressive record of leadership working in the Hampden County Superior Court and the Massachusetts State Treasurer’s Office, and the Westfield Commission for Citizens with Disabilities. Velis also held internships at the Hampden County District Attorney’s Office, Northwestern District Attorney’s Office and the White House.
A fiscally conservative Democrat, in his role as a Massachusetts State Representative, John supported a $36.3 billion fiscal year 2015 budget with no increase to taxes for Massachusetts residents. He understands how hard it is for families to balance their budgets and understands that many families are on a fixed income. He will work to find ways to provide valuable services and improve the state’s infrastructure without overburdening workers.