The COVID pandemic has taken its toll in virtually every quantifiable way: physical, economic, social … and all are inter-related. The First Middlesex District, comprised of smaller towns, is particularly vulnerable, and less able to absorb losses in any of these areas. Some of my most heartfelt conversations have been with health care workers who have told me about the unrelenting stress they face, and neighbors who share troubling stories about the personal, long-term health impacts of COVID for themselves or a family member.

All around this District, I hear about the impact COVID has had on veterans, renters, first responders, schools, businesses, and others. It’s imperative that small towns are not overlooked as we chart a path back to normalcy. One of my top priorities will be to introduce and aggressively support legislation that provides a safety net – and a bridge – so that our citizens and businesses can return to normal.