Politics & Government

Vispoli Officially Announces State Senate Candidacy [PHOTOS]

Andover Selectman Alex Vispoli officially announced his candidacy for a seat in the state senate Tuesday night at a kick-off party at Andolini's in Andover.

Dozens of guests filed into the elegant function room at Andolini’s Tuesday night to raise a glass to state senate candiate Alex Vispoli during his kick-off event.

Restaurant staff served gourmet pizza while elected officials from Andover and surrounding communities mingled alongside supporters for Vispoli and his bid for the second Essex and Middlesex State Senate seat, covering Andover, Dracut, Lawrence and Tewksbury.  

Vispoli will be challenging current Sen. Barry Finegold (D-Andover), but first Rep. Paul Adams (R-Andover) during the Sept. 6 Republican primary. Learn more about Vispoli's campaign at AlexVispoli.com.

Find out what's happening in Andoverwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

The 9-year selectman made it clear that the current leadership is not providing the attention that is needed in the struggle between cutting costs while maintaining services. 

“I like the opportunity of working on the front lines to solve problems. And there are a lot of challenges but how can we deliver the same services and reduce the costs?” said Vispoli. 

Find out what's happening in Andoverwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Selectman Brian Major introduced Vispoli and talked about the many accomplishments he’s made as a selectman and in other capacities.  In addition to leading to the charge in groups like the Design Review Committee and Economic Development Council, Vispoli was also instrumental in consolidating the town’s four IT departments.

“I have a passion for what I do as a selectman,” said Vispoli. “I want to take this same passion and this same approach, the same drive and the same energy to Beacon Hill with a positive approach. I can promise you will I will not be timid. I will not be playing defense. I’ll be playing offense. “

Vispoli also talked about a culture of arrogance on Beacon Hill in regards to how they do business.

“Waiting for a phone call is not an effective way to lead,” said Vispoli.

And, of course, the night wouldn’t be the same without background music and MC/DJ services provided by recently retired selectman Ted Teichert.

Teichert ended the night with a song whose message was short, simple and well-said: Takin’ Care of Business.

Those interested in donating to Vispoli's campaign or learning more about him and his views can visit AlexVispoli.com.


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