Pressley Endorses Ballantyne, Burnley, More In Somerville

SOMERVILLE, MA — Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley is throwing her support behind Ward 7 City Councilor Katjana Ballantyne for Somerville mayor.

"I'm grateful to have known Katjana for more than a decade, and to have had the opportunity to work alongside her during her time on the Somerville City Council," Pressley said in a statement. "I have seen, firsthand, her commitment to leading with compassion and in deep partnership with community. During her campaign for mayor, Katjana has presented a clear vision for Somerville’s future - rooted in inclusivity, equity, and justice - and a detailed plan for how to make that vision a reality. I know that, as mayor, Katjana will continue to provide the bold, committed leadership that the residents of Somerville both demand and deserve."

Pressley announced seven other endorsements for local office in Somerville on Monday:

• Current City Councilor At-Large Kristen Strezo and Willie Burnley Jr. for City Council At-Large;
• Current City Councilor Matt McLaughlin for reelection in Ward 1;
• Current City Councilor J.T. Scott for reelection in Ward 2;
• Current City Councilor Ben Ewen-Campen for reelection in Ward 3;
• Judy Pineda Neufeld for Ward 7 City Councilor;
• Current member Andre Green for reelection to the Somerville School Committee

"This diverse slate of candidates brings a wealth of experience, a dedication to bold policymaking, and a deep commitment to community partnership to Somerville City Hall," the congresswoman said. "In this moment, when all of our communities are faced with both unprecedented challenges and unique opportunities, I'm proud to endorse this dynamic group, whose passion, determination, and unique perspectives will help make Somerville a more just and equitable community for everyone."

Pressley was elected in 2018 to represent the 7th Congressional District, which includes Somerville, after nine years on the Boston City Council. She is the first woman of color elected to represent Massachusetts in Congress.

The endorsed candidates received the Pressley Policy Pledge distinction, which reflects their commitment to a range of key policies, including criminal justice reform, student debt cancellation, fare-free public transit and more, Pressley said.

The municipal election in Somerville will be held Nov. 2. The last day to register to vote is Oct. 13. To check their status and find their polling location, voters can visit the Secretary of State's website here.