For the first time in more that 16 years, we are being asked to elect a new state representative for the 1st Hampshire District. I am running because I can offer you strong progressive values combined with solid experience in government, at both the local and state levels.
The first step to being qualified for this job is having a complete understanding of exactly what a state representative does. There is no question that after working as the district director for Peter Kocot for 16 years, I have that knowledge. As the only person Peter ever hired, I worked very closely with him on every aspect of his service.
Additionally, I have previous elected experience as a two-term member of the Hatfield Select Board, including three years as chair. I also have worked in government at the county level and worked for a municipal attorney, solidifying my understanding of how government works for you — the people it serves.
You must trust that your next state representative will be on the right side of policy decisions — always fighting for fairness, justice and progress. My decisions will be made only after looking at all sides of an issue and finding the best possible solution for the people I represent, and I will always listen to your ideas and concerns.
I already have relationships with key legislators throughout the commonwealth. Peter taught me that it is through the strength of those relationships that I can build coalitions to be the most effective representative for Northampton, Southampton, Westhampton, Hatfield and Montgomery.
As your next state representative, I will make education funding my top priority, I will work to create a single-payer health care system based on fairness and quality care and I will fight to put the commonwealth at the forefront of clean energy and combating climate change.
I will work diligently to expand our tax base by focusing on economic development initiatives such as attracting clean-energy businesses and focusing on small-business development. I recognize agriculture as a critical part of our local economy and will fight to keep farming sustainable here in the 1st Hampshire.
Your next state representative will also need solid experience with budgets in order to be effective during what we know is a difficult and politically charged process. In addition to my state budget experience, I oversaw a $15 million budget in Hatfield. I juggled competing priorities and I was held accountable for my decisions.
Your next state representative will be relied on heavily by local elected officials for a wide variety of municipal needs such as public building projects, overdue infrastructure improvements, land preservation, home rule petitions, grant applications — the list is extensive and the matters complicated. This means that you need to elect someone who has experience with these matters and I do. Since his passing, I have continued Peter’s work with district communities on several important projects and pieces of legislation.
Your next state representative must have a solid grasp of the specific needs of the people of the district as well as the ability to assist them in very real and tangible ways. The constituent work I have done over the years has been extensive; I have literally helped thousands of people. It is the largest part of my job and it is my passion.
The very people that I know rely on their state representative the most are often overlooked in this campaign. I will continue to advocate for the elderly, veterans and homeless, as well as those with developmental disabilities, mental illness and substance abuse disorders.
Your next state representative must have a clear understanding of state agencies, departments, local social service agencies, non-profits and activist organizations. It is critical to have strong working relationships with key people in those groups. I do, and those relationships are invaluable to you as a constituent.
My knowledge of constituent issues, the legislative process and my strong relationships with people in the district and on Beacon Hill will be a huge asset to this district as your next state representative.
Peter Kocot has been described by his colleagues as the most well-liked member of the House of Representatives, and he was beloved in this district. While Peter’s loss has been difficult for our community, I am determined and committed to put my experience and qualifications to use for the 1st Hampshire District to continue his legacy of effective and progressive leadership.
I would be very grateful for your vote on Sept. 4.
Diana Szynal is a Democratic candidate for state representative in the 1st Hampshire District.