NORTH ANDOVER — Republicans Patrick Rahilly and Jamison Tomasek both said they are the right candidate to replace outgoing state Sen. Susan Tucker.
The two candidates outlined their views yesterday in an Eagle-Tribune-sponsored debate. They answered questions ranging from reforming the state pension system to instituting a financial control board in Lawrence.
Tomasek opposes what he calls "one-party" domination of state politics and would push for government that "doesn't look at a citizen's ATM and works to solve problems in a cost-effective way." He conceded that some of his ideas would not appeal to most voters, but said his views are based on necessity.
"We're not in that kind of time," Tomasek said.
Rahilly, who played quarterback at Tewksbury High School, championed his leadership skills. He wants a less intrusive government by reducing the sales and income taxes, and eliminating the alcohol tax. Rahilly said his upbringing in federally subsidized housing helps him relate to people.
"I do know the value of a dollar and I do know how people who live paycheck to paycheck live and the challenges they face every day," he said.
Voters will decide between Tomasek and Rahilly in Tuesday's primary. The two are running to fill the 2nd Essex and Middlesex District seat. Tucker, an Andover Democrat, is not seeking re-election.
Here is a look at their answers to questions asked:
Financial control board in Lawrence
Rahilly initially supported a financial control board, but now would prefer a stronger step, such as the city entering receivership or filing for bankruptcy. However, receivership has a drawback.
"In this political climate, the receiver would be appointed by a Democratic governor and I don't think that would be the best option right now," Rahilly said.
Tomasek pointed out that having a state-backed financial control board in Lawrence to handle the budget would not be a new approach, since the board would include Lawrence's financial overseer Robert Nunes, Lawrence Mayor William Lantigua and some city councilors. Tomasek would support receivership, but said he believes it should be in January if a Republican wins this year's gubernatorial election.
Tomasek would provide better oversight of state money in Lawrence, noting that current state legislators secured funds without overseeing the spending.
"There's quotes out there that says they are happy to get them the money but they never paid much attention to where the money went, so that would change if I were elected state senator," Tomasek said.
Connecting with constituents
Rahilly said he filled six notebooks with ideas he's gathered on the campaign trail talking to voters.
"They helped shape me as a candidate and shape me as a person," Rahilly said.
He said, if elected, he'd frequent community events to learn what voters really think.
Tomasek would improve the relationship between town officials and state legislators, joking that some town officials only meet state legislators at parades, when they're all marching together.
Tomasek also would look to Tucker's approach as a model for helping constituents.
"Susan Tucker has set a very high bar for constituent services and I would try to keep that high bar in place," Tomasek said.
Illegal immigrant access to state benefits
Both candidates support legislation to limit state benefits to illegal immigrants. Tomasek supports the legislation "without a doubt," calling it a big issue in the district.
Rahilly talked specifically about tuition reductions for illegal immigrants.
"I paid my way through college and I don't think someone should get a tuition reduction just because they live in the state and they're an illegal immigrant," Rahilly said.
