Former State Rep. Running for State Senate

Former state representative Barbara L’Italien of Andover is running for State Sen. Barry Finegold’s seat in the the Second Middlesex and Essex District.

“I have been contacted by many people throughout the district who have urged me to seek the Senate seat being vacated by Senator Finegold,” said L’Italien. “I am both humbled and energized by their confidence and support. The people of Andover, Dracut, Lawrence and Tewksbury have been well served by Senators like Pat McGovern, John O’Brien, Sue Tucker and Barry Finegold and I look forward to continuing their tradition of strong and effective leadership.”

L’Italien was a state representative, as well as a social worker at Elder Services of the Merrimack Valley and the Massachusetts Elder Abuse Hotline and West Suburban Elder Services. She also worked for children with disabilities during her term at the State House.

“My work on behalf of people with Autism has enabled families to receive the behavioral and communication supports necessary to maximize their potential and to lessen the long-term costs of education and care,” L’Italien said.

After leaving the legislature in 2011, L’Italien worked in State Treasurer Steve Grossman.