As I mentioned in yesterday’s post about rep and senate races in the Merrimack Valley, a well-qualified and prominent Democrat is considering a run the the newly reconfigured 18th Essex House District. Barbara  L’Italien who formerly held the seat for four terms is a high ranking member of the administration in the State Treasurer’s office –  director of government affairs. Treasurer office policy would compel L’Italien to resign or take a leave from her job – the rules do not allow an employee to run for a full-time office.  She has been urged by people in the district and many of her former colleagues to run against freshman incumbent Jim Lyons (R-Andover). His recent budget amendment suggestions don’t set well with many advocates and district activists especially as they affect programs.  For now, L’Italien and her supporters are collecting signatures for the rapidly approaching deadline. Until the legally needed number of signatures are certified by the Secretary of State,  L’Italien won’t officially launch a campaign. The new 18th Essex District has added precincts 3 and 3A in (North) Tewksbury to precincts in Andover, North Andover and Boxford – while shedding precincts in Georgetown, Haverhill and Methuen. I have a vested interest in Barbara L’Italien’s decision as I vote in Tewksbury’s precinct 3.  As for GOP-er Lyons, he claims to be ready for any challenger.

Read more about this race here in today’s Eagle Tribune.