I'm very excited to announce that today I received the endorsement of former State Representative Rich Bastien (see his letter below). This is significant not only because I worked very closely with him as MassGOP Field Director when he ran and won his seat in 2010 but also because he was previously endorsing my opponent until learning more about my agenda for the MassGOP and hearing me elaborate on my vision at the debate in Gardner earlier this week. I'm proud to have earned his support and if elected Chair next week, pledge to ensure Rich has the resources from the Party needed to return to the Legislature, along with many other Republicans, in 2014.
Dear State Committee Members,
Next week you have a large decision before you; who to lead our party into a fast paced special election and toward renewed resurgence in 2014. I know that it is not a decision you take lightly, and I appreciate the chance I have had to speak personally with some of you over your thoughts these last few weeks.
I am writing to let you know that I am now supporting Kirsten Hughes for Chairman. Kirsten has the hands on experience we need right now in order to capture the Senate seat currently held by Senator Kerry. I expect the Senator to be easily confirmed this week, triggering a less than six month sprint to the finish line. Given the time crunch involved, we need someone that has not only success fundraising, but success also in organizing door to door field efforts that will absolutely be necessary to win in a reduced campaign calendar.
Yet, 2013 is not our only focus as a party. As a first term state representative targeted by the Democratic Party last year, I have seen firsthand the lengths to which our opposition is willing to go to and their coordinated effort that maintains their dominance on Beacon Hill. Any effort to grow our party must begin with a renewed effort to rebuild party infrastructure and identify and support candidates for the state legislature. For far too often we have seen our party driven to division when it needs uniting. The way we win is by having a unified vision and message that shows Independents, Reagan Democrats, and all Republicans that the path to a better future for their family lies with bringing balance to Massachusetts politics. I am confident that Kirsten will build on the support the party offered candidates in 2012, and look forward to working with you and her on recruiting a slate of candidates beginning this year that we can all be proud of.
We are blessed this year with two exceptional candidates for Chairman. I am asking those of you who are undecided to endorse Kirsten this week. The Democratic Party is preparing to unite behind their candidate in this year's special election for United States Senate and time is of the essence. It is time we unite our party and prepare to support our candidate and party chair as well.
Sincerely yours,
Rich Bastien
