STATEMENT ON SENATOR FLANAGAN'S TRANSITION TO THE CCC AND THE UPCOMING SPECIAL ELECTION

State Representative Natalie Higgins released the following statement regarding Senator Jen Flanagan’s appointment to the Cannabis Control Commission and resignation on August 31, 2017:

“It has been the ultimate privilege and a pleasure to serve with Senator Jen Flanagan for these past eight months. In my short time here I have noticed the common identity and collaboration among the North Central Mass delegation, and this is due in large part thanks to the Senator’s leadership. While I am sad to see her leave the Legislature, she will be a phenomenal addition to the Cannabis Control Commission. 

I also want to thank all of my supporters who have reached out encouraging me to run for Senator Flanagan’s seat. When I decided to run for State Representative in Leominster, I understood the unique and serious responsibility of representing a community I care so deeply about. It would not be fair to the people of Leominster for me to run for Senate at this time. I am just getting started here in Leominster and transitioning to a district of 10 ½ cities and towns would mean I would have to divert my focus from Leominster before finishing what I have started.

Senator Flanagan has set a high bar for representing the Worcester and Middlesex District, and I am confident the people of North Central Mass will select the best candidate to succeed her in this special election. I look forward to working with our new Senator to raise up every resident in Leominster and the rest of North Central Massachusetts.”