House Assistant Minority Leader George Peterson (R) announced today he will not be seeking re-election for the office of State Representative. Peterson has been a member of the Massachusetts House of Representatives for the 9th Worcester District since 1994. Peterson’s 20 year service included serving on committees ranging from Natural Resources & Agriculture to the Rules Committee. The 9th Worcester District consists of Upton, Grafton, Northbridge and parts of Westborough.
“I am proud to have had a colleague such as Representative George N. Peterson, Jr.” State Senator Michael Moore said. “Representative Peterson was a compassionate and fair-minded voice on Beacon Hill, who was always willing to reach across the aisle to ensure positive results for the Commonwealth and his district. Representative Peterson was instrumental in working with me in the House to eliminate the Fair Share Contribution program in support of businesses. I wish Representative Peterson an enjoyable retirement. His passion and leadership will be sorely missed,” said Moore.
In Upton news Peterson was involved in what Upton Daily termed the “battle of the letters” which was a series of letters submitted to the Surface and Transportation Board regarding the Grafton and Upton Rail Road. Peterson expressed to the STB that the G&U should be able to continue to operate its Upton yard under the privilege of preemption.
Below is a Peterson’s press release.
“Today, with a heavy heart, but a clear mind, I announce that I will not seek re-election for the office of State Representative. My decision to retire from the House of Representatives has been extremely difficult. However, this next chapter in life will allow me to join my wife Diana in spending quality time with our children and grandchildren as we travel around the country.
For over 20 years, Beacon Hill has been my second home. While my heart has always been in Grafton, and with the people of the Ninth Worcester District, my time in Boston has been invaluable. Being a legislator, let alone a Republican lawmaker, can be a test of will and patience. However, I wouldn’t trade my time as a member of the Massachusetts Legislature for anything. My tenure in the House of Representatives has not only allowed me the opportunity to forge relationships with my colleagues in the Legislature, but it has provided me the soap box necessary to help make the Commonwealth a better place to live, work, and raise a family.
Perhaps the hardest part of leaving the job I love is having to bid farewell to the House Minority Leader, our leadership team, and all of my Republican colleagues. This group of lawmakers, albeit small, works day in and day out to effect positive change in the lives of the residents of Massachusetts. We have cheered one another along in victory, and remained strong and united in defeat. I am forever grateful to them for their guidance and friendship.
I would be remiss if I didn’t take a moment to thank the staff for all of their tireless work, and continued dedication. Since being elected in 1994, I have worked side-by-side with some truly incredible aides and analysts. These individuals are continually the first ones in, and the last ones out. We as legislators would not be where we are today without their unwavering support.
This announcement is not my departure from Massachusetts and its political landscape. While I may be hanging up my hat as an elected official, this state is home, and I care too much about its wellbeing to walk away altogether. I will forever have a vested interest in continuing to make the Commonwealth a continued source of pride for future generations.”
UPTON DAILY 