Rep. Capuano Receives Second Key Primary Endorsement

SOMERVILLE, MA – Congressman Michael Capuano has another major Massachusetts political figure in his corner: former governor Deval Patrick. In a statement Thursday, Patrick said Capuano has been alongside him in the "trenches," highlighting their collaboration on projects like the Green Line Extension and affordable housing.

Patrick added that "everything about his challenger and her campaign makes me proud," but did not mention Boston City Councilor Ayanna Pressley by name. Pressley, 43, is Capuano's first primary opponent for the Democratic nomination in Massachusetts' 7th Congressional District in 20 years.

"I am truly grateful to have the support of Governor Patrick, a progressive champion and a leader on issues that truly impact the lives of our constituents," Capuano said in a statement. "Whether it was expanding health care, stimulating the local economy and job growth, innovating in the schools, or protecting our precious environmental resources, Deval focused every day on moving Massachusetts forward."

Patrick, Massachusetts' first black governor, served from 2007-2015. He is the second prominent political figure to endorse Capuano in recent weeks, behind Boston Mayor Marty Walsh.

Read Patrick's full statement below:

“Mike is one of the most tenacious and determined people I know, in or out of government. When he believes in something or someone, he won’t let go and never stops trying to get the job done. He believed in me when few others would take a chance on a novice candidate, and stuck with me as a consistent ally to meet the needs of our citizens, especially through the Great Recession. That’s why I stand with him now,” said Patrick. “Everything about his challenger and her campaign makes me proud. But Mike was with me in the trenches and I appreciate how hard he worked with me in tough times and out of public view for the good of the people of the Commonwealth. He consistently stood with me on important issues like the Green Line extension and improving the Fairmount Line, increasing affordable housing opportunities, and rebuilding community health centers. That’s why I’m supporting his re-election to Congress.”

Image via Mike Capuano Twitter