| This afternoon, via an emailed statement, Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr (R-Gloucester) affirmed his support for Karin Rhoton (R-North Andover) in her bid for the State House.
Tarr stated, "A recently published story may have caused confusion about my support for Karin Rhoton, and that is unfortunate. I have and continue to be impressed by her commitment to controlling state spending and job creation, and I am appreciative of her work on behalf of Melissa's Law. I have heard what she has to say, and believe that she has what it takes to be a good and effective legislator."
Asked by Red Mass Group if the statement constituted an endorsement of Rhoton, Lisa-Marie Cashman a spokeswoman for Tarr said that it was not a formal endoresement. Red Mass Group further confirmed with a reporter for the Eagle Tribune, which originally ran the story that Tarr was asked if his attendance at a Rhoton fundraiser constituted an endorsement.
Rhoton in a statement on her website last evening had the following to say about the flap, "Senator Tarr has been very supportive of my race thus far and I enjoyed working with him and many volunteer organizations to pass Melissa's Bill."
Rhoton continued, "I have appreciated the support he has given me and although endorsements are welcomed, the only endorsement I strive for is that of the people of the Fourteenth Essex District on November 6. We will continue to work hard, knock on doors, and get our message of fiscal responsibility and accountability out to the people of North Andover, Haverhill, Lawrence, and Methuen." |
