David Linsky: MA 2020 Primary Candidate Profile

NATICK, MA — At this point, it's hard to remember a time when state Rep. David Linsky didn't represent Natick in the Legislature.

Linsky won his 5th Middlesex House seat in 1999 after defeating former Natick selectman John Moran in the Democratic primary. Before Linsky, Republican Douglas Stoddart — who was appointed to be a Framingham District Court judge in 1999 — held the seat.

Linksy has not faced a challenger in the Democratic party since 1999, until this year. Local businessman Jaymin Patel, also a Natick High School grad, is running for the 5th Middlesex seat as a "fresh voice," according to his campaign website.

Patch has asked both Patel and Linsky to answer our candidate questionnaires ahead of the Sept. 1 Democratic primary. The last day to register to vote in the primary is Saturday, which is also the day early voting gets underway. Here's how Linsky answered our questionnaire:

David Paul Linsky

Age (as of Election Day): 63
Family: Three grown sons
Education: Natick Public Schools, Colby College, Boston College Law School
Occupation: Attorney, Member of Massachusetts House of Representatives, Committee Chairman
Previous or Current Elected or Appointed Office: Massachusetts House of Representatives, 1999-Present; former Assistant District Attorney, Natick Town Meeting, Natick Conservation Commission
Campaign website: www.DavidLinsky.org

Why are you seeking elective office?

To continue the work I have been doing for the past 21 years, making this community the excellent place to live, work and raise a family; highlighting public education, a strong economy, a good environment and great accessible and affordable health care

How would you rate the state's response to the coronavirus pandemic on a letter-grade scale (A, B, C, D or F), and how would you explain that rating?

While Massachusetts has done a better job than most statutes, we must continue to be vigilant and make sure that no one is left behind. Our work is not done.

Is Chapter 40B, the state's affordable housing law, working, and if not what would you change?

No answer

What steps, if any, should the state take toward police reform?

No answer

Describe the other issues that define your campaign platform

Excellent public education, strong economy, preventing gun violence, affordable and accessible health care, civil rights for all

What are the critical differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?

I have worked for decades helping this community and serving all of the families of this District. I have a strong record of accomplishment. I have helped build the new Natick High School, Wilson and Kennedy Middle Schools in Natick, D-S Middle and H.S. Renovations, and Clyde Brown in Millis, along with many other projects throughout the District.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?

21 years of committed service to Natick, Sherborn and Millis

The best advice ever shared with me was:

No answer

What else would you like voters to know about yourself and your positions?

The most important part of this job is helping families and individuals navigating government to get the services they need.