Rep. Peter Durant (R-Spencer) and Rep. Jonathan Zlotnik (D-Gardner)Photo: Courtesy of State House News Service
BOSTON (State House News Service) — Former Gov. Charlie Baker has staked a claim in the ongoing race for a central Massachusetts Senate seat.
Baker, who now leads the NCAA, endorsed fellow Republican Rep. Peter Durant of Spencer on Monday, just over two weeks ahead of the Nov. 7 special election.
Durant faces Democrat Rep. Jonathan Zlotnik of Gardner in the contest to replace former Sen. Anne Gobi, who joined the Healey administration as rural affairs director earlier this year.
Baker described Durant, who has called for the repeal of the state's right-to-shelter law amid a massive surge of immigrant families, as a proven leader in a statement provided by the campaign. Former Lt. Gov. Karyn Polito last week endorsed Durant, who's also backed by a handful of Republican lawmakers.
"Peter has a track record of standing up for taxpayers, helping small business, and ensuring state government is thrifty and accountable," Baker said. "He is the only candidate with business experience, and he understands the issues that city and town governments face because he, like me, served on his town's board of selectmen. Most importantly, Peter is an independent voice for the people."
Zlotnik, meanwhile, is endorsed by Gov. Maura Healey and Lt. Gov. Kim Driscoll, as well as 10 state lawmakers and about 30 local elected officials, according to his campaign.
"Jon's passion for this district, his focus on increasing affordability and opportunity throughout our Commonwealth, and his work to ensure everyone has a voice and seat at the table make him the clear choice to carry on the vital work of Senator Gobi," Healey and Driscoll said in a joint statement this summer.
Zlotnik was elected to the House in 2012 at age 22 with no prior experience in public office, and the Telegram & Gazette reported at the time the "win was a surprise to some who may have underestimated him."
Written By Alison Kuznitz / SHNS
Follow WBZ NewsRadio: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | iHeartmedia App | TikTok