PDS Endorses Candidates in the 2011 Municipal Races

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 10, 2011

CONTACT:
Marty Martinez, Chair
chair@pdsomerville.org
617.256.5641

PROGRESSIVE DEMOCRATS OF SOMERVILLE ENDORSE CANDIDATES FOR THE 2011 MUNICIPAL RACES

Aldermen at Large Bill White and Dennis Sullivan endorsed for re-election. Katjana Ballantyne endorsed for Ward 7 Alderman and Christine Barber endorsed for Ward 4 Alderman.

Somerville, MA. The Progressive Democrats of Somerville (PDS) has made endorsements in the contested Alderman-at-Large race, and in the races for Ward 4 and 7 Alderman. PDS will consider an endorsement for Ward 3 Alderman at their next meeting in September.

PDS is proud to endorse incumbents Bill White and Dennis Sullivan for reelection for Alderman at Large. Each candidate brings something different to this race and the PDS membership overwhelmingly voted to support those perspectives. "Aldermen at Large Bill White and Dennis Sullivan continue to be strong voices for open, accessible, and accountable government and we know that we have strong progressive leaders on the Board of Aldermen with them present." said PDS Chair Marty Martinez. "We are proud to endorse both of these candidates."

PDS is proud to endorse Christine Barber for Ward 4 Alderman. The PDS members were unanimous in their support for Christine and were impressed with her credentials and grassroots campaign. "Ward 4 needs a strong and energetic leader and that leader is Christine," said PDS Chair Marty Martinez. "As a health policy expert, Christine understands the complex issues that the city faces and we are excited to work with her on her campaign for Ward 4 Alderman."

PDS is proud to endorse challenger Katjana Ballantyne for Ward 7 Alderman. As the former President of Somerville Community Corporation, Katjana cares about keeping Somerville affordable for all residents and families. PDS members were excited about her focus on an open and inclusive government. "Katjana would bring a fresh perspective to the Board of Alderman," said PDS Vice-Chair Judy Neufeld. "PDS is proud to endorse Katjana for Ward 7 Alderman."

PDS invited all candidates in a contested race to submit a written response detailing their positions on a variety of issues, except for the candidates in Ward 3. Candidates were asked to respond to important issues facing this district including thoughts on local issues including the Green Line Extension, the proposed Wal-Mart store, and ways to engage community in local government. Nearly 40 community members attended the PDS Endorsement Meeting on Tuesday, August 9, 2011 and asked the candidates thoughtful questions. Their responses to the questionnaires are posted on the PDS website at www.pdsomerville.org.