My name is Vanna Howard and I am announcing my candidacy as a Democrat for the 17th Middlesex District State Representative seat. After surviving the Killing Fields of Cambodia and speaking little English, the Greater Lowell area welcomed me and provided me with the opportunity to live in safety and peace. Since that time, I have secured my college degree, married, raised a family and made many friends in this region, built a career, and immersed myself in community life. I am running because I strongly feel the need to give back to a place which has been so good to me; because I feel I have the skills, knowledge, and experience to capably serve the residents of this district; and because these unprecedented times are right for a fresh and effective voice on Beacon Hill.
My priority is getting people safely back to work and rebuilding our local economy. I am a strong advocate for small business and working people. I’ll use my public service experience and skillset to help our communities get the attention and funding we need and deserve. We should also take this opportunity to declare energy independence by investing in the new green jobs of the future.