Ternullo Announces for State Representative

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Stoneham, MA — Today, Stephen Ternullo, a United States Army veteran, longtime community volunteer, and local taxpayer advocate, officially announced his candidacy for State Representative, vowing to restore affordability, accountability, and common-sense leadership on Beacon Hill.

Speaking before supporters at his campaign kickoff event, Ternullo emphasized that Massachusetts is “at a crossroads” and that the decisions being made by state leaders are directly harming families, seniors, and communities across the district.

“Our state is at a crossroads that is affecting our communities, our families, and our quality of life,” Ternullo said. “As a dad, husband, and taxpayer, I am deeply concerned about the future.”

Ternullo outlined what he views as unsustainable state spending priorities—particularly the billions spent on emergency shelter programs for migrants—which he argues have squeezed local aid and contributed to financial stress in communities like Stoneham and Winchester.

“Over the past two years, we have watched the State House blow through billions of dollars while our communities face stagnant aid,” said Ternullo. “Stoneham is now facing its third Prop 2½ override battle. Our residents cannot afford more property taxes. We need relief, not higher taxes.”

Ternullo called for amending Massachusetts’ Right to Shelter law to ensure tax dollars are prioritized for residents, veterans, and seniors, and to prevent the state from becoming what he described as a “magnet” for unsustainable migrant spending.

“There is a solution,” said Ternullo. “The funds spent on the migrant crisis should have been invested in our veterans, our seniors, our schools, and our infrastructure.”

Ternullo highlighted the overwhelming 2022 statewide vote supporting increased transparency by allowing the State Auditor to audit the Legislature—an authority lawmakers have refused to grant.

“A year ago, 72 percent of Massachusetts voters demanded transparency,” he said. “That wasn’t a partisan message. It was a message from the people. We want accountability. It is our money—not theirs.”

Citing decades of involvement in youth sports and community programs, Ternullo pledged to fight for fair state education funding, reduce unfunded mandates, and ensure local schools receive needed resources without relying on repeated tax increases.

“I’ve seen firsthand how important a strong foundation is,” he said. “Every child in Stoneham and Winchester deserves a world-class education without placing the entire burden on local taxpayers.”

He also stressed the need to support veterans, first responders, teachers, small businesses, and working families.

“As a United States Army veteran, service is part of who I am,” Ternullo said. “My time in the Army taught me responsibility, discipline, and a deep respect for community.”

Ternullo emphasized that his campaign is not about partisanship but about the future of the communities he loves.

“Ultimately, I’m running because I care deeply about the people of Stoneham and Winchester,” he said. “I want our communities to remain places where families can thrive, seniors can stay in their homes, small businesses can grow, and children can succeed.”

He concluded: “This isn’t about politics. This is about protecting our future together.”