Domenic Mercurio Running for State Rep, 15th Worcester District

“I got to keep going and helping as many people as I can before I check out of this life. That’s my job.”

By-Hank Stolz

Photo submitted

Worcester, MA-Domenic Mercurio, a candidate for state representative in the 15th Worcester District, called into the Talk of the Commonwealth to outline why he is taking on longtime incumbent Mary Keefe in the Democratic primary. Mercurio is the executive director of the Worcester Public Market. When asked why he is running for State Rep. and not, say, City Council, Mercurio replied, “One word Hank, budget.” He feels the most effective way to address significant local issues like homelessness is at the state level, where control over the budget allows for the funding of impactful programs.

Mercurio identified homelessness as a major issue in his district and proposed emulating the Adult and Teen Challenge program, which provides skills training and job placement, and said he would seek state funding to establish similar programs. He advocated for new legislation that would make education on how to properly interact with police officers during a traffic stop a required component of getting or renewing a driver’s license, citing a recent incident in Worcester as a reason for this public safety measure. He highlighted the significant problem of housing affordability in Worcester, noting that rents are becoming comparable to Boston prices, and stated his intention to work on state-level committees to bring more resources back to the district to help residents.

Asked about his motivation for running, “I got to keep going and helping as many people as I can before I check out of this life. That’s my job.” As for taking on an incumbent, Mercurio argues his high energy, passion, and hands-on approach to problem-solving are what the district needs in a representative to see tangible progress on key issues.

The Democratic Primary is September 1st.

Domenicforrep.com