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It has only been a bit more than a week since Carmine Gentile, Sudbury’s representative in the Massachusetts House of Representatives, announced that he will not seek reelection for a seventh term. But much has happened since then.
Within days Gentile’s legislative aid, Ravi Simon, announced that he would be running for Gentile’s seat, with Gentile’s full endorsement.
This week, Lisa Kouchakdjian, chair of the Sudbury Select Board, issued a statement on social media informing the community that she would not be joining the race. “Thanks to your strong support, I did my research to understand how much of an impact I can have at the state level. My research indicates that the State House is not the best environment right now for me to be effective. I believe I can achieve greater success for community at the local level. As I let go of my life-long dream for right now, I would like to wish Ravi well and success in his effort to join the Legislature. I also look forward to continuing to serve this great community as a Member of the Select Board. It is an honor to serve this community!”
While Kouchakdjian had not voiced intentions to pursue the seat prior to that statement, she indicated in her statement that several community members in Sudbury and beyond had encouraged her to run.
Simon’s campaign then issued a press release yesterday touting its early momentum. The release noted the campaign raised over $20,000 in his first week and secured more than 35 endorsements from regional leaders, including State Senator Jamie Eldridge. Simon enters the race with a 60-member host committee representing Concord, Lincoln, Marlborough, Sudbury, and Wayland.
Citing a platform focused on the cost of living, environmental protection, and public education, Simon will formally kick off his campaign on Thursday, February 26, at 7 p.m. at the First Parish of Sudbury.
It remains to be be seen if Simon will have an opponent in the September primary, but the very early show of strength and laundry list of endorsements is typically done to discourage would-be challengers in a Democratic primary.
Simon is also unopposed on Sudbury’s Annual Town Election ballot. He is running for reelection to his seat on the Lincoln-Sudbury Regional High School Committee. In comments on social media, Simon has indicated that he intends to continue serving in that role while campaigning for State Representative in the 13th Middlesex District.