My name is Connor Murray.

I am an international nonprofit leader, proud environmental activist, trusted advisor to progressive legislators and campaigns across the country, and former Presidential Fellow at the Center for the Study of the Presidency and Congress. I have a degree in political science and criminal justice, and I’m also a longtime resident of Andover and product of our public school system. It is very exciting for me to share that in 2026, I will be running for the seat currently held by Congressional candidate Tram Nguyen in the Massachusetts House of Representatives.

I'm running because I believe my neighbors across the four towns of the 18th Essex District - Andover, North Andover, Tewksbury, and Boxford - deserve a strong voice advocating for their needs on Beacon Hill. The Trump administration is systematically dismantling our nation's core democratic institutions, and our state government has an ethical duty to meet the moment with fire. It must uplift the working class, protect the rights of immigrants, and actively resist all efforts to undermine the Commonwealth's autonomy.

Simultaneously, it is critical for us to acknowledge the crisis of affordability impacting young people, families, and elders alike, and tackle it with precision and efficiency. Austerity is not a viable solution. We should instead embrace creative and equitable approaches that reduce strain on citizens of all backgrounds and lifestyles, such as tax reform and public investment.

Massachusetts is pioneering technological innovation, leading the country in scientific research and development, and prioritizing the transition to clean energy and environmental sustainability. We recognize the inherent value of knowledge, empathy, and progress, and we accept the critical importance of rule of law, an educated citizenry, and proper governance. To echo President John F. Kennedy, we do these things not because they are easy, but because they are hard. That mindset is at the heart of our state's guiding principles, and it is the legacy we are now required to defend.

To be successful in these endeavors, our state legislature needs authentic, transparent, and committed advocates who won't back down under pressure. We need public servants who will fight for and be present in our local communities; those who will partner with their constituents and colleagues at the State House to collaboratively address tough issues. These leaders will usher in a new era of democracy in Massachusetts and across America by inspiring renewed optimism and civic engagement among populations who currently feel that their government has let them down. If I am elected as our district's next Representative in the General Court, I pledge to abide by this style of leadership.

The upcoming election cycle looks to be one of the most consequential in modern American history. As a society, we must strive for progress through every avenue available to us. Only then can we prosper. I implore you to seriously consider your options for each seat on the ballot, not just the marquee races at the top of the ticket. Choose the candidates who are willing to do the hard work. Choose the candidates who gives you hope.

With that in mind, I humbly ask for your vote in 2026.