I am writing to share that I have changed my endorsement in the Democratic primary for State Senate. I previously endorsed Sen. Will Brownsberger, but I will now be voting for and supporting Daniel Lander.
I want to begin by saying that I have tremendous respect for Sen. Brownsberger and am grateful for his many years of service to our community. This is not a decision I have made lightly, nor is it a repudiation of Sen. Brownsberger’s years of service. I initially supported Sen. Brownsberger because I know he is an engaged, thoughtful, and responsive legislator. He has a long record of dedicated public service, a deep understanding of state government, and a reputation for taking constituent concerns seriously. For these reasons I felt comfortable supporting him. My decision to change my endorsement began to take shape as I learned more about Daniel Lander’s deep commitment to progressive values, his desire to challenge the status quo, and his support of schools, workers, and labor unions.
As a member of the Watertown School Committee, I deeply value the relationship between our School Committee and the Watertown Educators Association. I believe strong schools depend on strong partnerships with educators, and that respectful labor relations require listening, collaboration, and a genuine recognition of the important role unions play in advocating for working people. The Massachusetts Teachers Association’s endorsement of Daniel Lander therefore carries particular weight with me. His commitment to educators, public schools, and working people aligns closely with my own values and with what I have learned through my work in Watertown and as an educator.
I am also drawn to Daniel’s focus on affordability and housing. In a diverse community like Watertown, where housing costs make it increasingly difficult for working families, young people, renters, and longtime residents to remain here, we need leaders willing to make meaningful structural change. Daniel’s commitment to expanding permanently affordable housing, protecting renters, and making Massachusetts more affordable for working people aligns strongly with my values. I want a State Senator who will work to ensure that communities like Watertown remain places where people from a range of backgrounds and incomes can afford to live, work, and raise a family.
As a School Committee member, I am also focused on Daniel’s commitment to investing in our public schools. He understands that strong schools require adequate state funding, support for educators, modern facilities, and the resources to meet the needs of every student — including students with disabilities. His commitment to fully realizing the Student Opportunity Act, addressing the state’s aging school buildings, and supporting and retaining excellent educators reflects what I see every day in our schools: investment in public education is an investment in our children, our communities, and our future.
My endorsement of Daniel Lander is therefore less about abandoning someone I previously supported and more about recognizing where I see my values truly reflected. I continue to appreciate Sen. Brownsberger’s service to Watertown and the district, and I sincerely thank him for the work he has done on behalf of our community.
But elections are ultimately about making a choice. After reflecting on what I value most in a state senator at this moment, I believe Daniel Lander is the candidate who better reflects my progressive values — particularly when it comes to public education, affordability, and the importance of strong, respectful labor relationships.
I am proud to change my endorsement and support Daniel Lander for State Senate. Please don’t forget to vote in the primary on Sept. 1.
Jessica Middlebrook
Watertown School Committee Member