Framingham Firefighters, Carpenters Back Sisitsky In Mayoral Race

FRAMINGHAM, MA — With just about a month to go before Framingham's mayoral primary, several candidates are racking up big-name endorsements.

On Monday, the Framingham firefighters union, IAFF Local 1652, announced its support for former City Councilor Charlie Sisitsky. He'll face off in the primary against incumbent Mayor Yvonne Spicer and Brazilian Immigrants Family of America CEO Carlos Valadares.

"We are proud to support a candidate with such an extensive knowledge of Framingham. Charlie knows the value of firefighters and the risks we take to keep our community safe," union president Andrew Rokes said in a news release. "We need a mayor who will truly listen to the needs of their constituents and make every effort to move Framingham forward."

Sisitsky has also been endorsed by the Carpenters Local 336, which represents workers across the MetroWest area.

Meanwhile, Spicer picked up the endorsement of the pro-choice group EMILY's List in early August. The Massachusetts Women's Political Caucus (MWPC) endorsed Spicer last week.

"She has succeeded in developing STEM programs and supporting public education throughout the state. We are thrilled to back her as she continues to fight for her constituents," the MWPC said in a tweet.

The top two vote-getters in the Sept. 14 primary will advance to the general election in November. There will also be a primary in the District 7 City Council race, where four candidates are vying to win the open seat being left by Margareth Basilio Shepard.