Damian Anketell: Patch 2nd Essex State Senate Candidate Profile

SALEM, MA — Residents of Beverly, Danvers, Peabody and Salem who go to the polls on Nov. 5 will have a choice of candidates to represent them as part of the 2nd Essex District in the Massachusetts State Senate.

For this election, Patch sent each of the candidates on the ballot five questions specific to Beacon Hill and representing the district. Responses will be published as they are received.

Here are the responses provided by Republican candidate Damian Anketell:

Share some details about yourself, your ties to the district, your career in public office and/or professional life.

My name is Damian Anketell, and I'm proud to announce my candidacy for State Senate
representing the 2nd Essex District. I was born and raised in Salem, educated in Salem Public
Schools, and earned a bachelor's degree in Political Science with a concentration in Public Law
from Salem State College, now University.

For nearly two decades, I've been serving the North Shore community through my work in criminal justice, mental health, and drug rehabilitation. I live in Peabody with my wife Lori, who serves as a nurse at Salem Hospital. Throughout my life, I've lived on the North Shore, which gives me a deep understanding of the district's needs and values. My commitment to community service reflects my dedication to making the North Shore a safer, more prosperous place for all residents.

2. Why are you seeking - or seeking to remain in - this elected office?

I am running for State Senate because I believe the 2nd Essex District deserves a voice that will advocate for common-sense policies that put people first. I am committed to reducing the cost of living, improving public safety, supporting small businesses, and standing up for the rights of law-abiding citizens. I will work tirelessly to ensure that our economy thrives by removing unnecessary regulations, advocating for tax relief, and supporting policies that create opportunities for all. I am determined to bring about meaningful change, promote fiscal responsibility, and protect the values that make our community strong.

3. What are the key issues facing the North Shore, and how would you address them on Beacon Hill, if elected?

The North Shore is facing several pressing issues:

Illegal Immigration: This issue has placed a tremendous strain on our local resources, from schools to healthcare systems. As your State Senator, I will advocate for stronger immigration policies that prioritize the needs of American citizens, ensuring that our tax dollars are spent on services for legal residents and citizens. I will push for firmer legal consequences against illegal immigrants who commit crimes to ensure public safety.

Public Safety: I support bail reform to ensure that dangerous criminals are kept off the streets. I will also advocate for lifetime sentences for fentanyl dealers who are poisoning our communities and restore qualified immunity for police officers to ensure they can protect us without fear of unjust legal repercussions.

Economic Issues: With inflation, high taxes, and excessive regulations hindering business growth, our economy is struggling. I aim to waive the gas tax, remove unnecessary agricultural regulations, and streamline small business creation to stimulate job growth and lower costs for working families. These steps will create a more business-friendly environment that attracts investment and generates employment opportunities.

Affordable Housing: The housing crisis is another critical issue. The state's spending on illegal immigration and burdensome green initiatives has inflated housing costs. I will work to redirect funds towards initiatives that genuinely help Massachusetts residents afford to live and thrive here, ensuring that affordable housing is accessible to all.

4. What are the critical differences between you and your opponent seeking this office? Do you feel Massachusetts is headed in a positive direction based on State House spending and
policy initiatives in recent years, or do priorities need to change?

My opponent, Senator Joan Lovely, and I have known each other for years, and while I respect her as a person, I strongly disagree with her legislative stance on several issues. She has supported policies that have led to excessive spending on illegal immigration, unnecessary green regulations, and restrictive gun laws that infringe upon our constitutional rights. These policies have driven up costs, reduced public safety, and made living in our community increasingly difficult.

In contrast, I stand for fiscal responsibility, support for law enforcement, protecting the rights of
legal gun owners, and ensuring that taxpayer money benefits American citizens first. I believe
Massachusetts needs to change course, moving away from overregulation, wasteful spending, and
policies that compromise public safety. My priority is to refocus government efforts on the needs of hardworking families, ensuring that our state serves the interests of its residents above all else.

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

I am deeply committed to the principles of freedom, personal responsibility, and traditional values. As an avid defender of the 2nd Amendment, I oppose the recent gun law reform bill passed in Massachusetts, which imposes unnecessary restrictions on law-abiding citizens. I believe in the
right to self-defense and will work to protect this fundamental right.

I am not a career politician; I am a dedicated member of this community who understands the
challenges we face. I want to be a voice for the North Shore, fighting for policies that support our
police, enhance economic opportunities, secure our borders, and ensure our state government
operates efficiently and effectively.

My campaign is about restoring common sense and accountability to Beacon Hill, ensuring that the government serves the people it represents. I ask for your support as we work together to build a safer, more prosperous Massachusetts for all.