Election 2018: Lynch Challenges Arciero For 2nd Middlesex Seat

A Westford resident and small business entrepreneur is looking to unseat State Rep. Jim Arciero. Kathy Lynch is running for state representative in the 2nd Middlesex District, which includes Westford and Chelmsford.

Arciero, also a Westford resident, is in his fifth term in the Mass. House of Representatives. During his tenure, he has pushed for increased funding for public education, local aid and school safety; investments in infrastructure and transportation improvements; reducing the cost of student debt and ensuring benefits for veterans, according to his campaign site.

He is the original sponsor of legislation allowing retired law enforcement officers to serve as school resource officers and a bill to form a commission to study the use of interlock devices in schools.

He has twice received the Spirit of Compassion Award from Community VOICES for his efforts in improving transparency to the Massachusetts Sex Offender Registry and was awarded the 2015 Veterans Service Officer Award for his work on passing legislation that would provide public housing to disabled veterans and free higher education to veterans.

His challenger, Lynch, has worked in government, private industry and as an entrepreneur. She told Patch the most pressing issue in the district is affordable health care. Between common health issues like cancer, heart disease, Alzheimers and arthritis, the continuing opioid crisis and rising insurance costs, she says she will focus on developing a sustainable solution.

"That means prioritizing funding for preventative measures, reducing waste and fraud, reviewing eligibility requirements for Medicaid and encouraging high-quality, competitively priced treatment solutions," Lynch wrote in an email.

Her platform includes bringing local aid to the district's schools and encouraging fair, balanced debate on controversial topics rather than one-sided political activities; ensuring access to quality fresh food and advocating for a clean environment; encouraging growth for small and local businesses; and increasing transparency on spending.