Berkshire political leaders are overwhelmingly supporting Treasurer Steve Grossman in his bid for Massachusetts governor even though fellow Democrat Martha Coakley is from North Adams.The county’s four state representatives Tricia-Farley Bouvier, Paul Mark, Smitty Pignatelli and Gailanne Cariddi have pledged their support for Grossman. As have Berkshire County Sheriff Tom Bowler, Pittsfield City Council President Melissa Mazzeo and Mayor Dan Bianchi.
“He seems to a great understanding of education and economic development and how the two work together,” said Bianchi.
Grossman, the endorsed Democratic candidate, faces primary challengers in Coakley and Don Berwick.
North Adams Mayor Richard Alcombright, a former classmate of Coakley’s, is sticking by her side. State Senator Ben Downing of Pittsfield is co-chair of the Democratic Party’s coordinated campaign and has not supported any one candidate.
Endorsed Republican candidate Charlie Baker, who lost to Governor Deval Patrick in 2010, faces a primary challenge from Tea Party candidate Mark Fisher. Patrick, a Democrat, is not seeking reelection. Jeff McCormick, Evan Falchuk and Scott Lively have qualified for November’s ballot as independents.
The primary is Sept. 9th.
