Chris Oates, candidate for state rep in 34th Middlesex, is endorsed by Somerville elected officials

The following was submitted by the Chris Oates campaign:

Chris Oates, Democratic candidate for state representative in the 34th Middlesex District, announced he has been endorsed by current and former Somerville elected officials: Ward 7 School Committee Member Leiran Biton and former Ward 7 City Councillor Judy Pineda Neufeld.

Both leaders pointed to Oates’s focus on the practical work of making Massachusetts more affordable and ensuring that progressive priorities translate into results.

“Chris’s focus on making life more affordable and livable for families is exactly what we need to move our commonwealth forward on education funding, clean energy, and protecting immigrant rights,” said Leiran Biton, Somerville Ward 7 School Committee member. “I’m proud to support Chris Oates for state rep!”

Judy Pineda Neufeld, former Somerville Ward 7 City Councillor, highlighted Oates’s approach to governing and his emphasis on implementation.

“After nearly four years serving in local government, I know this: having the right priorities is only half the job. Getting anything done requires persistence, relationships, and a willingness to do the hard work. That’s what I see in Chris Oates,” Pineda Neufeld said.

Oates said he was honored to receive the support of two leaders who understand the challenges facing residents of the district.

“I’m grateful to have Leiran and Judy’s support,” Oates said. “They both understand that voters need more than a list of promises. They need representatives who will listen, understand the details, build coalitions, and do the work required to turn good ideas into actual policy. It’s very easy to make promises, but it’s harder to actually get things done in a State House that is the least competitive in the country. There’s no simple trick to government. It’s a daily process of showing up, listening to the community, and working with advocates to get the details right."

Oates is the founder of a business that makes state legislatures more accessible. He was previously senior advisor to Yes on 2 / Voter Choice MA, the ranked-choice voting ballot question in 2020, an associate and analyst at Oxford Analytica, and has an MPhil and PhD in international relations from the University of Oxford.

He lives in Winter Hill with his wife and 4-year old son.