Candidates Face Off in Democratic Primary for 10th Middlesex House Seat

Watertown - On August 4, WCA-TV, in collaboration with the Watertown News, hosted a live 10th Middlesex District House of Representatives debate between Newton City Councilor Alison Leary and incumbent State Rep. John Lawn. The two candidates disagreed on a number of topics posed by moderator Jim Vershbow, but they agreed on one of the most pressing issues affecting their constituents: Massachusetts is becoming increasingly unaffordable.  

The candidates differed on how to address the problem. Leary called for changes to the state’s approach to healthcare and housing, including a single-payer Medicare for All system and greater state intervention in housing. Lawn cited his legislative experience, especially as chair of the Health Care Finance Committee, as evidence that he’s met the needs of the people. As for housing, he argued that communities should retain some control over some local development decisions.  

Leary highlighted Massachusetts’ overall healthcare spending as proof that the current system is not working. “Our total health care spending in 2024 exceeded $83 billion. That’s probably more than anyone else pays in practically the world,” said Leary. “So, I’m here to bring a fresh approach, fresh eyes, courage, steady leadership, and a strong voice.”

Lawn did not rule out a single-payer model but argued whether it is possible in Massachusetts. “You have to study this with real health policy experts to see if Massachusetts could be a single-payer state. It is a challenge,” said Lawn.

Both candidates also identified housing affordability as a major concern but differed over the role of state intervention.  

“Our history of local control is really one of the reasons why we struggle with housing production. And it’s gotten to be a crisis. We do need to build more housing, and I do support state interventions to help communities get there,” said Leary.

“Every community is different. There should be some local control because there are characteristics of neighborhoods that should be preserved,” said Lawn.

Both Democrats agreed that rising utility costs are a concern. Leary believes addressing climate change is part of the solution. She proposed having the oil and gas companies that have contributed to climate change help pay for its impacts rather than putting the cost on taxpayers.

“I want the oil and gas companies that have contributed to our greenhouse gases to pay for it, not the taxpayers,” said Leary.

Lawn emphasized the state needs to continue investing in cleaner energy sources such as solar and offshore wind but stressed the state has to make sure people can afford their utility bills.

“We’ve got seniors calling my office every day, unable to pay their utility costs,” said Lawn.

With affordability as a central theme of the debate, the candidates offered voters different approaches to addressing the rising costs of healthcare, housing, and utilities. Leary believes a fresh perspective different from the norm will help create meaningful change, while Lawn argued his record shows he’s been working to address affordability, particularly rising healthcare costs. 

The candidates also discussed rising health care costs, funding for the MBTA, education and education expenses, climate policy, support for small businesses and improvements along the Charles River.

The Democratic nominee will be decided in the Sept. 1 state primary. Watch the full debate below: