Upper Cape Women’s Coalition Endorses Kathy Fox Alfano As Write-In Candidate
The Upper Cape Women’s Coalition has endorsed Kathleen Fox Alfano as a Democratic write-in candidate for the Massachusetts House of Representatives for the 3rd Barnstable District for the primary election on Tuesday, September 6.
A press release from the coalition, signed by chairwoman Penelope Duby, said that the endorsement is based on the candidate’s response to questions posed by UCWC members in a personal interview and assessment of the candidate’s positions on issues of concern as reported on the candidate’s website and announcements.
“We attempted to contact candidates whose values aligned with the mission and goals of the UCWC, some of whom did not respond; therefore, this endorsement is based on those individuals who responded to our requests,” the release says.
Republican incumbent David T. Vieira, who has held the office since 2011, is running unopposed. There are no Democratic nominations on the ballot for the Third Barnstable District, which consists of Bourne precincts Three, Four, Five and Six; Falmouth precincts Three, Four, Seven, Eight and Nine; and Mashpee.
“[Ms. Alfano] is dedicated, as are we, to the participation of women in public service and to building a community that is equitable and inclusive,” the release says.
According to the press release, Ms. Alfano had numerous connections with local and state legislators, and worked closely with political campaigns for many years before moving to Bourne full time several years ago. During her time in Bourne, Ms. Alfano has served as chairwoman of Bourne’s wastewater advisory committee, addressing issues such as wastewater outfall proposed for the canal, clean water, coastal resiliency and innovative solutions to wastewater. Ms. Alfano is also chairwoman of the Bourne Library trustees.
Ms. Alfano previously worked for CBS News, which served as the basis for her independent production of a local cable television show called “Primary ‘22: Why Should We VOTE for You?” in which Ms. Alfano interviews various political candidates running in contested races for the state’s primary election.
“Our interviews gave us confidence that she does her homework, carefully studies the issues, listens and responds to others’ opinions and is committed to improving life for the citizens of Massachusetts’ 3rd Legislative District,” the release said. “She is committed to work for equity, women’s rights to safety, health and employment and transparency in government. [Ms. Alfano] hopes her candidacy might inspire other Bourne women to step up for roles in town government.”
According to the Massachusetts Secretary’s website, a write-in candidate must receive at least the number of signatures that they would have been required to file to get on the ballot for that office. In Ms. Alfano’s case, that number is 150. To win a primary election, write-in candidates must receive more votes than any other candidate.
The primary election will be held on Tuesday, September 6. Polling places will be open from 7 AM to 7 PM.