Momentum on the Campaign Trail: Community, Conversation, and the Weeks Ahead

As we move into the final stretch before Election Day on May 19th, I wanted to share an update from a busy and energizing week on the campaign trail.

One of the highlights was participating in the Mattapoisett Democratic Town Committee’s Candidates Night. It was an opportunity to engage directly with residents, answer thoughtful questions, and talk more deeply about the issues that matter most to our community.

A question that came up focused on my ability to serve simultaneously on the ORR School Committee and the Select Board. I shared that my experience on the ORR School Committee has given me a strong understanding of how local government operates—the meeting cadence, the preparation required, and the range of issues that come before a board. The work is structured and predictable, with a natural summer recess that provides balance. In addition, through my professional role, I regularly collaborate with other town boards and attend Select Board meetings, which has already given me a broader view of town operations and priorities.

Another question centered on composting in Mattapoisett. While this falls under the Board of Health rather than the Select Board, it is an issue I strongly support. I am especially proud that I recently approved a student-led initiative to launch a composting program at the high school. It is a great example of young people leading on sustainability, and I would welcome the opportunity to see similar efforts expanded across town.

Beyond the campaign forum, I also had the chance last week to participate in a panel hosted by MassBioEd at Carver High School. I spoke with students about my career path, the decisions I faced after high school, and what led me to pursue biomedical engineering.

These conversations are important to me because they connect directly to the kind of community I want to help build—one where students, including those from underrepresented backgrounds, can see themselves in STEAM fields and feel supported in pursuing those paths. When we invest in expanding opportunity for young people, we strengthen not just individual futures, but the long-term vitality of our entire community.

That belief has been reinforced again and again as I’ve spent time out in neighborhoods this week. I’ve been knocking on doors with our volunteer team, sharing why I’m running and talking with residents about the upcoming election. So far, our team has reached 116 homes—and we’re continuing to canvass right up until Election Day. These conversations are at the heart of what this campaign is about: listening, learning, and staying connected.

We are now less than two weeks away from the election, and there are a few key deadlines to keep in mind:

• May 8th is the last day to register to vote: https://www.sec.state.ma.us/OVR/

• May 12th is the last day to request a Vote-by-Mail ballot

In the coming days, there are also several opportunities to connect in person:

Candidates Informal Meet & Greet: Wednesday, May 6 | 5:30–7:30 PM Knights of Columbus Hall, 57 Fairhaven Road. Hosted by Bonne DeSousa

Candidates Night – Hosted by the Mattapoisett Republican Town Committee Thursday, May 7 | 6:00–8:30 PM Knights of Columbus Hall, 57 Fairhaven Road

Campaign Fundraiser Friday, May 8 | 6:00–8:00 PM The Inn at Shipyard Park, 13 Water Street

All are welcome. Light refreshments will be provided, with a cash bar available.

As we head into these final days, I remain grateful for the conversations, questions, and encouragement from across our community. Every door knocked, every discussion, and every vote helps shape what comes next.

Thank you for being part of this work.

— Frances