Michael B. O'Brien Sr., Nashua State Representative Candidate

Michael B. O'Brien Sr.

Age (as of Election Day)

67

Position sought (including district number if applicable)

State Representative District 10

Party Affiliation

Democrat

Family

Diane (wife) Michael Jr. (son) Kayla (daughter) Haley (daughter) and 4 grandchildren

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

My son Michael Jr. Fire Lieutenant Nashua Fire Rescue, Kayla Nashua school nurse

Education

Don Bosco Technical High School Boston. Mass. Maritime Academy

Occupation

Firefighter City of Nashua 35 years achieving the rank of Deputy Fire Chief

Previous or Current Elected or Appointed Office

7 terms State Representative, Nashua Board of Alderman 2 terms as Vice President of the Board

Campaign website

none

Why are you seeking elective office?

Nashua and Manchester are the economic generators for the State by supplying 35% to the state economy, however when funds are distributed by the state Nashua at times is ignored. Since my first year as a representative I have voted pro Nashua over party affiliation for our city. These facts can be documented in the annuals of my voting and attendance records. Lately working to gain funds from the extremely large surplus state account back to Nashua and other communities where the state use to pay 35% of the pension costs which was lowered to zero causing a tax to member municipalities. My bill last year was to to add a little relief to municipalities by the state paying 7.5% which for Nashua would of equaled 2 million dollars or 1% tax relief to our taxpayers. As a city alderman I see daily what are the needs of our city are, and as a member of the House advocate our city needs to the betterment of our community.

The single most pressing issue facing our (board, district, etc.) is _______, and this is what I intend to do about it.

I have been a strong advocate for commuter rail and our investment will benefit Nashua in real estate value and open a job market for workers seeking Boston market paychecks. Nashua is a hub community. We have all seen the homeless and aware of the drugs issues that have entered our city more than what we witness in our adjacent communities. I'm glad Nashua has such broad shoulders and must ask why does the state provide minimal assistance. Nashua is a resilient community but we need not to fight this alone, I have and will continue to advocate for Nashua in the state house.

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

I am a working man Democratic. Fair wage for employees and a climate where employers can grow their business. This means my party affiliation is one topic but my attention to the details is Nashua first. I don't believe in one party demands of our way or the highway such as the unfortunately used term RINO. How can you vote for your community in fear of intimidation? Your party is your caucus, your vote is yours alone based on the needs and wants of your community. I do do my homework, and will always vote for Nashua first.

If you are a challenger, in what way has the current board or officeholder failed the community (or district or constituency)

I am not a challenger

Describe the other issues that define your campaign platform.

It is my belief every Alderman should be a State Representative and vice versa. When one knows what the other hand is doing benefits our city. I have that experience.

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

I served Nashua as a firefighter for 35 years obtaining the rank as Deputy Chief. This management experience prepared me for the House where I served as Vice Chair and Chair of the Transportation Committee. I currently serve on the Executive Department and Administration committee. My seven terms in the House has afforded me the opportunity to advocate for Nashua.

The best advice ever shared with me was:

The firefighters creed. Never ask a man to do anything you wouldn't do yourself. Treat all fairly. And you were born with one name, keep it clean.

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

Our Democracy is the upmost importance etched in the blood of our hero veterans. It is our right to vote. Please do and if you chose me as your candidate, I promise to continue to advocate for Nashua.