Eight years ago, at 21 years old, I ran for state representative in the 1st Franklin District. The district may look a little different today, and so do I, but the challenges facing our communities have only grown more complex. The need for thoughtful, collaborative leadership has never been greater.

I’m proud to endorse Lora Wondolowski for state representative.

When I reflect on why I ran, the people I met, and the qualities I hoped to bring to public service, I can’t think of a stronger candidate to represent the 18 communities of the 1st Franklin District.

Lora has built an impressive record of leadership and service. As president of the Greenfield City Council and founding director of the Massachusetts League of Environmental Voters, she has shown that she can bring people together, listen to different perspectives, and get things done. She understands that good government means showing up, doing the work, and fighting for the people you serve.

Families are being squeezed by rising costs. Young people are struggling to afford homes in the communities where they grew up. Rural schools and towns continue to fight for the resources they deserve. Meanwhile, fundamental rights, public education, and environmental protections face growing threats.

These challenges demand leaders willing to speak up, stand their ground, and work across differences. Leaders who understand that Franklin County isn’t an afterthought and that rural Massachusetts deserves the same opportunities and investment as anywhere else in the commonwealth.

Having once asked voters to trust me with this seat, I don’t take an endorsement lightly. After nearly a year without representation in the Massachusetts House, our district needs someone who can hit the ground running. We need someone who understands our communities, knows how to bring people together, and has the determination to fight for our region.

Lora Wondolowski is ready to lead.

I encourage my friends and neighbors across the 1st Franklin District to vote for her on Tuesday, Nov. 3.

Casey Thomas Pease

Stockbridge