Paul’s access to opportunity started when he secured full-time employment as a lineman with the phone company and joined the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW). Six months into working at the phone company, the members of IBEW went on strike against Verizon to retain healthcare benefits and job security. Having learned much from his co-workers, Paul became more involved with the union during this time. Paul held several union offices, including COPE Director, Press Secretary, Executive Board member, Central Labor Council Delegate, and Union Steward. Today, he remains a proud dues-paying, card-carrying member of the IBEW and the Massachusetts Teachers’ Association (MTA). 

Paul has been one of the strongest labor leaders in the legislature because supporting labor and working families leads to a more equitable and just economic system, both locally and statewide. Multinational corporations and the top 1% have had an unfair chokehold on our economy and spend obscene amounts of money to limit workers from access to fair wages, union membership, workplace dignity, and workplaces free from harassment. The Working Class is fighting back. Right now, we have a tremendous opportunity, coupled with Federal ARPA money and the revitalization of the labor movement, to make new investments and re-envision our economy so that it works for everyone. 

From the Berkshires to the Hilltowns, we have a unique local economy that needs support from the state. The pandemic caused untold financial instability and loss, forcing a number of restaurants and storefront businesses to close permanently. Looking ahead to the future, we need to prioritize economic development programs and aid small businesses trying to recoup from the last two years.