MA Treasurer Deb Goldberg Eyes Joe Kennedy's Seat In Congress

BROOKLINE, MA — Former Brookline Selectwoman and current State Treasurer Deborah Goldberg is taking steps to run for Congress. Goldberg filed a statement of organization with the Federal Election Commission to create the "Deb Goldberg for Congress Committee" on Monday.

Samantha Dallaire, a spokeswoman for Goldberg, confirmed to Patch the treasurer is mulling a race for the seat currently occupied by U.S. Rep. Joe Kennedy.

"As we have all heard, there is wide speculation about a potential open seat in the Massachusetts 4th Congressional District," said Dallaire in a statement. "Treasurer Goldberg is in a decision-making process on whether to run and speaking to friends, family and advisors. She is taking the necessary steps to set up a campaign committee and account should that race become a reality."

According to early reports Goldberg is eying the post if it turns out incumbent Kennedy decides to challenge U.S. Sen. Edward Markey in 2020. Others say she was making moves in this direction even before Kennedy put out a trial ballon earlier this summer.

Kennedy has occupied the 4th District seat, which encompasses Newton, Brookline and Welleslsy as well as parts of Norfolk and Bristol Counties and a bit of Fall River, since he was elected in 2012 following Congressman Barney Frank's retirement.

But if Goldberg carries through with the move, she won't be alone.

Ihssane Leckey, also of Brookline, is running.

Kennedy indicated in August he is considering running against Markey,

Goldberg was elected in 2014. Last year she was elected into her second term winning easily against former State Rep. Keiko Orrall.

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Patch reporter Jenna Fisher can be reached at Jenna.Fisher@patch.com or by calling 617-942-0474. Follow her on Twitter and Instagram (@ReporterJenna).