Union aide aims to run for Lynch’s (D-Ma) House seat

[Omaha Steve]

http://www.boston.com/news/local/massachusetts/articles/2010/04/19/union_aide_aims_to_run_for_lynchs_house_seat/

By Emma Stickgold
Globe Correspondent / April 19, 2010

US Representative Stephen F. Lynch could be facing a challenge, with the announcement by the regional political director of the service workers’ union SEIU of his intention to run for the South Boston Democrat’s seat.


Mac D’Alessandro said he hopes to be a strong voice for families.


Mac D’Alessandro, who may give liberal Democrats who are frustrated with Lynch’s more conservative leanings a candidate to rally around, has only until May 4 to obtain the 2,000 signatures he needs for his name to appear on the ballot.

A Facebook page and several Tweets sprouted up yesterday supporting D’Alessandro’s intention to run against Lynch.

After Lynch cast the Massachusetts congressional delegation’s lone vote against President Obama’s health care plan, many within the district called for a more progressive voice to surface. One group tried to recruit Needham activist Harmony Wu to run, but she ultimately decided against it, citing family considerations.

D’Alessandro, who has worked for the Service Employees International Union for nine years, downplayed the role that Lynch’s health care vote played in his decision to jump into the race, saying instead that he wants to bring a different voice to Capitol Hill.

“This is a personal decision for me, as a constituent, as someone who has progressive values,’’ he said. “This isn’t part of me being recruited, no, this is my wanting a stronger voice for the district, for my family and the other families.’’

FULL story at link.