Politics & Government
MA State Senator Susan Moran Won't Seek Re-Election
Sen. Susan Moran will instead run for Barnstable Superior Court clerk. Rep. Dylan Fernandes plans to run for the seat.

CAPE COD, MA — There will be a new state senator for the Plymouth and Barnstable District after the next election.
Sen. Susan Moran, D-Falmouth, who was elected as the senator in the district in 2020, said she won't seek re-election and will instead be a candidate for Barnstable Superior Court clerk.
Moran has a deep history in Falmouth politics, as she previously served as the chair of the town's Select Board.
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"My focus remains as your Senator," said Moran, in a statement. "I will stay committed on the issues I have fought for since being elected; competitively funding childcare, protecting our aquifer and ocean resources, while encouraging local economic growth that we can all be proud."
She continued:
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"While it has been an absolute honor to serve as the Senator for the people of the Plymouth and Barnstable Counties, I am excited to announce my candidacy for Barnstable Superior Court Clerk. I wish to continue working for these communities with a hands-on approach, bringing my skills as a long-time practicing attorney in federal and state courts, to better integrate services to the community in partnership with the DA and Sheriff and to increase the efficiency and accessibility of the Court, for judges, lawyers, and consumers."
As for who may look to replace Moran, Rep. Dylan Fernandes, D-Woods Hole, plans to run.
He posted a video sharing his reasons to X.
Big news to share with you: I’m running for State Senate in the Plymouth & Barnstable District! Join us: https://t.co/qauVPKcNf2 pic.twitter.com/yvIxMwgxlk
— Dylan Fernandes (@RepDylan) December 2, 2023
In a statement on Monday, Fernandes, the second-youngest legislator ever elected to the Massachusetts House of Representatives, expanded on his decision.
"I am running for State Senate to bring new energy to the role and legislative experience working to make Massachusetts a more affordable place to live for middle and low income people," said Fernandes.
"The Plymouth & Barnstable seat is my hometown district - I grew up here and love it here."
As for the Barnstable Superior Court clerk position, the incumbent in the seat, Scott Nickerson, said he plans to run for re-election, telling the Cape Cod Times he was unaware of Moran's plans.
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