2 Former Newton Mayors Endorse City Council Candidate

NEWTON, MA — As election season gets into full swing in Newton, so to, are the endorsements. Bryan Barash who is running against incumbent Emily Norton for Newton City Council's Ward 2 seat just released a list of endorsements. It includes approval from two former mayors and the Newton Teachers Association, which highlighted his experience working as a public policy professional at the Mass. State House, according to his release.

“His strength as an advocate for social justice issues is of particular interest to educators who work with a diverse student body with a wide range of needs," said the union according to a release. "He was an active supporter of the custodians in their difficult negotiations and has always been an active and vocal supporter of unions.”

Former Newton Mayors Setti Warren who lives in Barash's ward said he planned to vote for Barash.

“Bryan is balanced, intelligent, reasonable, and there is nobody I trust more to make the tough decisions," said Warren in a release. "When I have needed him, he has been there for me, which is how I know he will be there for you. I’ll be voting for Bryan Barash on November 5th."

Former Mayor David Cohen also threw his support behind Barash, calling him thoughtful and impactful.

"He leads with his values but is always seeking input from those with different viewpoints. I am confident he’ll make a great City Councilor and I support his candidacy,” said Cohen in a release.

The Bay State Stonewall Democrats (an LGBTQ+ organization), the Young Democrats of Massachusetts, local activist group Progressive Newton, and three organizations devoted to clean grassroots politics: Trailblazers PAC, We Can Run, and Run For Something all said they supported him, according to Barash.

Dozens of local politicians also endorsed him, according to his press release.

"I believe deeply in treating workers fairly, that everyone is entitled to equal dignity and opportunity, and that our politics should be clean, transparent, and people-powered," said Barash in a statement. "I am honored to have the support of so many organizations working hard every day to make our community a better place, and so many dedicated past and present local elected officials. I intend to prove myself worthy of their confidence when serving on the City Council."

If you're not registered to vote yet, you have until October 16 to register. Polls open Nov. 5.

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