News & Events
Thursday April 19, 2012
2012 U.S. Senate Election Distinguished Speaker Series
Location: Bridgewater State University, Dunn Conference Room
Time: 2:00pm
As part of a special 2012 U.S. Senate Election Distinguished Speaker Series, Marisa will speak at the Center for Legislative Studies at Bridgewater State University. President Dana Mohler-Faria introduce Marisa, and Dr. Mark Kemper will facilitate the discussion with students. The event will be in the Dunn Conference Room.
Saturday March 31st, 2012
Monson Candidate's Night Dinner at the Polish American's Citizen Club
Location: 7 Bliss Street, Monson
Time: Social hour, 6pm. Dinner 7pm.
Sunday March 25th, 2012
Weymouth Annual Spring Breakfast
Location: The Weymouth Eagle's Hall, Rte. 53 (Washington Street)
Time: 10am
Saturday March 24th, 2012
Attleboro DCC Annual Southeastern MA Democratic Spring Unity Brunch
Location: Waters Church, 15 John L. Dietsch Blvd., Attleboro Falls
Time: 8:30 am - 11:30 am
Thursday March 15th, 2012
Stoughton Democratic Town Committee
Location: China Town Restaurant, 103 Sharon Street Stoughton, MA 02072
Time: 6:30pm for cocktails and conversation.
Marisa will be the guest speaker.
Sunday March 11th, 2012
North Andover Democratic Town Committee Annual Breakfast
Location: North Andover Country Club, 500 Great Pond Rd., North Andover
Time: 9am
Marisa will be speaking at the event.
March 1st, 2012
Greenfield Democratic Town Committee Meeting
Location: 1 Elm Terrace, Greenfield
Time: 7:00pm
February 15th, 2012
Falmouth Democratic Town Committee
Location: Gus Canty Center, 790 Main Street, Falmouth
Time: 7:00pm
February 9th, 2012
Maynard Democratic Town Committee Candidate Forum
Location: Maynard Public Library, 77 Nason Street
Time: 7:00pm
All Democratic Senate candidates are invited to speak briefly and take questions from the audience. This event is open to the public.
February 7th, 2012
Salem State University
Sponsored by the Department of Political Science and the student-run Political Science Academy
Location: Salem State University
Time: TBA
As part of a series sponsored by the Department of Political Science and the student-run Political Science Academy, Candidate DeFranco will meet with Salem State University students to speak about her background in politics, the campaign’s positions on issues, and the uniqueness of a Massachusetts Senate race.
January 31st, 2012
Democratic U.S. Senatorial forum sponsored by
The Help Youth Vote! Coalition Boston Latin students
Location: Boston Latin School, 78 Avenue Louis Pasteur, Boston
Time: 3:00pm - 5:00pm
The event will be held at Boston Latin School in Boston, Massachusetts on Tuesday evening, January 31, with a smaller meet-and-greet reception in the school’s dining hall followed by a larger public forum in the school’s auditorium. Each candidate will have a chance to speak, as well as to answer some questions from attendees.
January 23rd, 2012 (CANCELLED)
Democratic U.S. Senatorial forum
Location: Yarmouth Council on Aging ballroom
Time: 7:00pm
Cape & Islands Democratic Council is sponsoring a Democratic U.S. Senatorial forum to be held January 23, 2012 ( Snow date January 30) at the Yarmouth Council on Aging ballroom. The program will start at 7pm. A panel consisting of media representatives will present questions to the candidates after which questions will be offered from the audience.
The Media panel:
John Basile, managing editor, the Register, Falmouth Bulletin, Bourne Currier, and the Sandwich Broadside,
Patrick Cassedy, Cape Cod Times, Heather Curtis, news center reporter, Cape Cod Broadcasting,
Mindy Todd, WGBH, Cape & Islands NPR Radio
January 21st, 2012
Topsfield Democratic Town Committee Event
Tactics and Technicalities – What Happens After the Election?
Location: Gould Barn. Topsfield, MA
Time: 3:00pm - 5:00pm
Please join the Topsfield Democratic Town Committee in welcoming US Senate candidate Marisa DeFranco to the Gould Barn on Saturday, January 21st, 2012 from 3pm - 5PM.
January 9th, 2012
Newbury Democratic Town Committee Meet and Greet
Location: Newbury Library on Lunt St. in Byfield, MA
Time: 6:45pm - 7:45pm
The Newbury Democratic Town Committee is hosting a meet and greet with Marisa on Monday, January 9th at the Newbury Library.
Tuesday December 13th, 2011
Brian A. Joyce Report w/US Senate Candidate & Attorney Marisa DeFranco
Time: 3:00pm
Marisa will sit down with State Senator Brian Joyce in Milton to discuss the issues.
Tuesday December 6th, 2011
Democratic Senate Candidate Forum
Hosted by The Martin Institute at Stonehill College
Media Sponsor: Wickedlocal.com
Location: Joseph Martin Institute, Easton
Time: 7:00pm - 8:30pm
Moderated by Chazy Dowaliby, Editor of The Patriot Ledger
Panelists from WGBH and WickedLocal.com
Stonehill College Debate
Wednesday, November 16th, 2011
Marisa will be at Occupy Boston on the Jeff Santos show, Rebuild America
Location: Occupy Boston
Time: 4:15pm
Wednesday, November 16th, 2011
Longmeadow Democratic Town Committee
Meet the Candidates Forum
Location: Longmeadow Library function room
Time: 7pm
Sunday, October 23rd, 2011
Whitman Democratic Town Committee Annual Breakfast
Location: Whitman VFW 697, Essex Street, Whitman
Time: 10:30am-11:30am
Sunday, October 23rd, 2011
23rd Annual Quincy Democratic City Committee Breakfast
Location: Quincy Elks Lodge, Tirrell Room, 254 Quarry Street, Quincy
Time: 10:00am-12:00pm
Sunday, October 23rd, 2011
Lynn Democratic City Committee Annual Unity Breakfast
Location: The Porthole Restaurant, 98 Lynnway, Lynn, MA
Time: 8:30am-11:00am
Wednesday, October 19th, 2011
Hopkinton Democratic Town Committee - Candidates' Night
Location: Hopkinton Fire Station, 73 Main St. in Hopkinton
Time: 7:00pm-9pm
Tuesday, October 11th, 2011
A Meeting with Marisa DeFranco - Candidate for United States Senate - Attorney at Law
Location: China Pearl Restaurant, 9 Tyler Street, Boston
Time: 6:15pm - 7:45pm
What is the "Meet the Candidates Speaker Series?
A non-partisan series of meetings with candidates for political office and the Asian American community, with 11 co-sponsoring organizations. It's a collaborative effort between a number of Massachusetts AAPI organizations to increase awareness of elections in 2011 and 2012, to introduce candidates for various offices to the AAPI community's unique issues & concerns, and to increase voter participation & civic engagement in the AAPI community.
Monday, October 10th, 2011
Brookline Democratic Town Committee Garden Party
Time: 3 - 5:30pm
September 18th, 2011 Acton Boxborough Democratic Annual Picnic
Time: 2:00pm - 5:00pm
Saturday September 17th, 2011
HAVERHILL DEMOCRATIC CITY COMMITTEE BREAKFAST
Time: 10:00am - 11:00am
Saturday August 27th, 2011
The Beverly Democratic City Committee's Annual Cookout & Awards
Time: 2:00pm - 4:00pm
Please join the Beverly Democratic City Committee in honoring Gary Barrett, William & Marguerite Coughlin, and Bonnie Hannable.
Donation- $20/person; $30/couple; children free.
Hamburgers, hot dogs and soft drinks provided. BDCC members are asked to bring a side dish.
Mass Democratic Party North Shore Barbecue
Time: 4:00pm - 6:30pm
Thursday August 18th, 2011
Quincy Democratic City Committee Barbeque
Time: 6:00pm - 9:00pm
Plymouth County Democratic League's Thank You Labor Picnic
Location: Local 223 IBEW Hall, Lakeville, MA.
Time: 6:00pm - 8:00pm
Wednesday August 17th, 2011
AILA Summer Social
Location: Tia's
Time: 5:00pm - 6:00pm
Saturday August 13th, 2011
Framingham DTC Summer Cookout
Time: 2:00pm - 4:00pm
State Treasurer Steve Grossman will be attending. All Senate primary candidates are invited.
Suggested donation $10.
Friday August 12th, 2011
Gloucester Democratic City Committee Wine and Cheese Fundraiser Party
Location: Provided upon RSVP
Time: 6:00pm - 8:00pm
Enjoy evening’s glow on a veranda by the sea with Congressman Tierney. Democratic U.S. Senate candidates have been invited to attend. Suggested contribution is $60/person, $100 for two. Tickets may be ordered electronically through ActBlue, or mail your check, made out to Gloucester Democratic City Committee, to P.O. Box 111, Gloucester, MA 01930. For more information, call Helen at 978-281-5673.
Thursday August 11th, 2011
Meet and Greet in Newbury
Location: PITA Hall, 8 Plum Island Tpk, Newbury, MA.
Time: 7:30pm - 9:00pm
Thursday August 4th, 2011
Annual Natick Dems BBQ
Time: 5:30pm - 8:00pm
Visit Facebook for additional news updates on recent and upcoming events.
She stands alone with Democrats' bully tactics
by Peter Lucas
June 5th, 2012
Elizabeth Warren may be ready to debate Republican U.S. Sen. Scott Brown, but the cigar-store Indian from Oklahoma clearly was not ready to debate little-known fellow Democrat Marisa DeFranco.
That is why her fellow liberal Democrats, meeting in convention in Springfield Saturday, simply thrashed DeFranco by denying her a place on the September primary ballot.
Democratic Party leaders, from Gov. Deval Patrick down, were simply fearful that a continued DeFranco candidacy would serve only to bring out even more weaknesses in Warren's troubled campaign for U.S. Senate.
This article was published in the Lowell Sun on June 5th, 2012.
Progressive challenges Warren for Mass. Senate seat
Interview on PoliticsNation
May 30th, 2012
Marisa DeFranco is a progressive in Massachusetts who hopes to challenge Elizabeth Warren in a Democratic primary for Senate. She joins Rev. Al Sharpton to discuss her campaign.
This interview aired on PoliticsNation on May 30th, 2012.
Big test for Democratic Senate candidates
May 30th, 2012
Supporters of Democratic U.S. Senate candidate Elizabeth Warren are under no obligation to help Marisa DeFranco obtain the minimum 15 percent delegate vote she requires to win a place on the primary ballot in September.
On the other hand, an organized effort to keep the Middleton attorney off the ballot would hardly enhance Warren's credentials in what promises to be bruising fight with Republican incumbent Scott Brown this fall.
This article was published in the Newburyport Daily News on May 30th, 2012.
DeFranco ready to spoil the party for Dems
May 29th, 2012
Elizabeth Warren, the cigar-store Indian from Cambridge, will win the Democratic Party convention endorsement for the U.S. Senate on Saturday, but it could be something of a mixed victory.
Rather than an outright coronation, Warren, the undocumented Cherokee, will have to beat the only remaining Democrat opposing her for the party convention endorsement. That is Marisa DeFranco.
This article was published in the Lowell Sun on May 29th, 2012.
Dare to debate? Marisa DeFranco comes out swinging
May 29th, 2012
By Chris Cassidy and Richard Weir
Democratic underdog Marisa DeFranco, claiming she’s riding a new wave of momentum as party establishment darling Elizabeth Warren struggles with a persistent scandal, is demanding at least four primary debates as the U.S. Senate race rivals head into the weekend’s state Democratic convention — and last night the Warren campaign opened the door to the possibility.
This article was published in the Boston Herald on May 29th, 2012.
Marisa DeFranco- Chief Lizzie Warren's opponent
May 23rd, 2012
Todd Domke says "Democratic Senate candidate Marisa DeFranco deserves respect, if not a second look by Democratic primary voters and the news media."
On her campaign website, this is how Marisa describes her legal practice, "I work with immigrants, businesses both large and small, children in state custody, and survivors of violence. I have first-hand experience advocating for clients who are affected by federal law — fighting to uphold those laws that deliver justice."
... and here’s what DeFranco said about the Warren controversy "The problem for me is the campaign’s lack of ability to have a clear and consistent message about this issue. They didn’t get in front of it when it first broke. They had several different responses… We need a Democratic nominee who’s able to define herself first and foremost, before the Republican GOP machine comes after you and defines the candidate for her. I will not let Scott Brown define me."
This article was posted on 90.9 WBUR on May 23rd, 2012.
Despite Elizabeth Warren’s Flubs, Democrats Still Have A Credible Candidate
by Todd Domke
May 23rd, 2012
Todd Domke says "Democratic Senate candidate Marisa DeFranco deserves respect, if not a second look by Democratic primary voters and the news media."
On her campaign website, this is how Marisa describes her legal practice, "I work with immigrants, businesses both large and small, children in state custody, and survivors of violence. I have first-hand experience advocating for clients who are affected by federal law — fighting to uphold those laws that deliver justice."
... and here’s what DeFranco said about the Warren controversy "The problem for me is the campaign’s lack of ability to have a clear and consistent message about this issue. They didn’t get in front of it when it first broke. They had several different responses… We need a Democratic nominee who’s able to define herself first and foremost, before the Republican GOP machine comes after you and defines the candidate for her. I will not let Scott Brown define me."
This article was posted on 90.9 WBUR on May 23rd, 2012.
DeFranco makes it a race
by Peter Ubertaccio
May 16th, 2012
My favorite quote from a Senate candidate of late goes to Marisa DeFranco, who told the Globe, in response to concerns raised by some Democrats about her candidacy, "Do we just want to have an anointing? Don’t sell people on the fact there’s a democratic process and then whine that there is a primary."
This article was published on MassPoliticsProfs on May 16th, 2012.
The federal Secure Communities program
May 15th, 2012
The federal Secure Communities program was enacted statewide across Massachusetts today, despite objections from state and local officials who say the program unfairly targets immigrant communities. However, law enforcement officials say the program is overdue and will make Massachusetts safer. Fore more on the controversial program, Emily is joined by Bristol County Sheriff Thomas Hodgson and immigration attorney and Democratic Senate candidate Marisa DeFranco.
Watch the video.
This interview aired on WGBH on May 15th, 2012.
The State We’re In: US Senate Candidate Marisa DeFranco
May 11th, 2012
Marisa DeFranco, candidate for the Democratic nomination for the United States Senate, discusses her positions on key issues including job development, health care reform and Federal regulation of big banks and Wall Street.
Watch to Marisa's interview on WGBY Springfield.
This interview aired on WGBY on May 11th, 2012.
Why Marisa DeFranco Is ‘Not Going Away’
May 9th, 2012
Listen to Marisa's interview on the Emily Rooney Show on WBGH
This interview aired on WGBH on May 9th, 2012.
Marisa DeFranco Is Not Going Away
May 9th, 2012
... "I have been very clear about my jobs plan, about renewable energy, about single-payer health care and the voters should have a choice. I mean, if we don't want to have a primary, let's just forget pretending and go back to the smoke-filled rooms, have the party pick the candidate and that's that," she said...
... A band of volunteers — along with a "very, very, very" small number of paid canvassers — collected almost 17,000 signatures, over 11,000 of which have been certified by the state Elections Division. "People have the power but the elected officials in power like the apathy just fine," she said...
DeFranco estimated her war chest at $42,000. It's a pittance compared to Warren's $11 million. But she said the race should be about issues, not money.
Listen to Marisa's interview on WGBH.
This interview aired on WGBH on May 9th, 2012.
Taking note of Warren's primary foe with Dems
by Peter Lucas
May 8th, 2012
... By rights, DeFranco should have gone the way of all the Democrats who boldly announced their candidacies for the Senate, only to wimp out -- or be forced out -- once Warren, the well-financed, elitist Harvard professor, got into the race. Instead, DeFranco is still standing, having become, (pardon me) the last of the Mohicans...
This article was published in the Lowell Sun on May 8th, 2012.
NECN Broadside: The other Democrat
May 8th, 2012
A recent Rasmussen poll found that the race is deadlocked between Brown and Warren, with both getting 45 percent of the vote.
Marisa DeFranco is more than just an observer of the U.S. Senate contest - she's in it.
Watch Marisa's interview on NECN Broadside.
This interview aired on NECN on May 8th, 2012.
May 6th, 2012
Keller @ Large: Senate Candidate Marisa DeFranco
BOSTON (CBS) – Much of the attention on the Senate race has focused on Scott Brown and Elizabeth Warren, but there is another Democrat vying for the nomination. Democrat Marisa DeFranco recently sat down with WBZ’s Jon Keller.
Watch Marisa's interview with Jon Keller.
This program aired on WBZ on May 6th, 2012.
DeFranco: 'I am not going away'
May 4th, 2012
Local attorney says she has the signatures to challenge Warren in primary ... ... "It's a great day; we're all very enthusiastic," said DeFranco, who said more than 100 volunteers have worked since February collecting signatures all over the state. "It was a dedicated group of volunteers and sheer determination." ...
... "Some Democrats will support the type of grass-roots campaign that can collect 10,000 signatures because they feel they deserve to go to the primary." ...
This article was originally published in the Salem News on May 4th, 2012.
DeFranco collects enough signatures to challenge Warren
May 3rd, 2012
Marisa DeFranco, a North Shore immigration lawyer whose financially strapped campaign is relying on a small band of passionate volunteers, has collected enough voter signatures to qualify for a primary race with Democratic Senate candidate Elizabeth Warren.
The unexpected development could complicate Warren’s much-ballyhooed challenge to Republican incumbent Scott Brown.
This article was originally published in the Boston Globe on May 3rd, 2012.
March 24th, 2012
Sen. Scott Brown, Elizabeth Warren and Marisa DeFranco weigh in on health care debate ahead of Supreme Court case
By Robert Rizzuto, The Republican
Marisa DeFranco, a Middleton immigration lawyer and Warren's only remaining opponent vying for the Democratic nomination to take on Brown in November's general election, supports the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act but feels Democrats failed by not pushing it further to include a public option.
... "The mandate to buy coverage from the health insurance companies, which is a Republican idea, is the crux of the problem," ... "I'm glad we did something on the national level but the Democrats really capitulated on the public option and that was a mistake. They started with the public option as their top marker. It's classic negotiation 101, you negotiate high to end up at middle or high ground of where you want to end. They should have started with single-payer and they would have ended up with a public option. If the insurance companies are really behind their free market mentality, then operate in a market. And if the government is your competitor and you're so much better than the government, compete."
I support Stem Cell Research. We are decades behind in the cutting edge research that could save and improve lives," ... "While politicians dither, people are dying of diseases that might be cured or delayed with stem cells."
... "No one asked me to get into this race. A few folks have asked me to leave,but I will not - because I am a fighter, and because I can win. As a fighter, I know never to quit until the bell rings at the end of the final round. Right now, we are just coming out of our corner for the start of round one." ...
This article was originally published on Masslive.com on March 24th, 2012.
February 17th, 2012
U.S. Senate candidate Marisa DeFranco discusses economic inequality, civil rights and qualifications during speech to SEIU
Masslive.com by Robert Rizzuto, The Republican
... In a video released by her campaign, DeFranco, an immigration lawyer who has been recognized nationally for her work, makes her plea to the SEIU in Boston, talking about civil rights, economic inequality and what she thinks is wrong with many Democrats today. Although the group eventually endorsed Warren, the video provides insight into DeFranco's character and her policy ideas.
This article was originally published on Masslive.com on February 17th, 2012.
February 16th, 2012
U.S. Senate Candidate DeFranco Talks Politics with Students
... DeFranco talked about her experience when it comes to fighting for equality, especially for women's rights and on the behalf of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBT) citizens. She calls herself a, "passionate fighter of women's rights." In addition to fight for equality, DeFranco served as Vice-President of Legislative Policy for Massachusetts National Organization for Women (NOW), and the Violence Against Women Task Force Chair.
This article was originally published in The Salem State Log on February 16th, 2012.
February 8th, 2012
U.S. Senate candidate Marisa DeFranco takes on healthcare, immigration and Elizabeth Warren
Masslive.com by Robert Rizzuto, The Republican
U.S. Senate candidate Marisa DeFranco thinks Sen. Scott Brown talks more about being a moderate than his actual views indicate. She says that her Democratic competitor Elizabeth Warren lacks actual ideas and has been skipping public forums across the commonwealth so voters can't compare candidates.
This article was published on Masslive.com on February 8th, 2012.
February 8th, 2012
Maria DeFranco, Dover’s Jim King, field questions on immigration, Iran at Boston Latin
Wicked Local Dover-Sherborn by Todd Feathers
Politically inclined students at Boston Latin School got a very personal look at Democrats Marisa DeFranco and Jim King at their student-led U.S. Senate Candidate Forum.
This article was published by The Herald News on February 8th, 2012.
February 8th, 2012
DeFranco Unabashedly Liberal in Senate Run
The Salem News by Jesse Roman
Marisa DeFranco is a proud liberal Democrat who believes in a single-payer health care system, deficit spending, diplomacy, gay rights and equal pay for equal work — and she's not afraid to say it.
This article was originally published in The Salem News on February 8th, 2012.
January 26th, 2012
Senate candidate with Salem ties plans her election year
The Herald News by Sarah Thomas Wicked
... Indeed, the Salem-based immigration lawyer has seen her campaign grow in visibility over the last year, and has begun plans for a year she hopes will mirror another Jack and the Beanstalk political tale of yore. ...
This article was originally published in The Herald News on January 26th, 2012.
January 23rd, 2012
DeFranco Ready for Battle
by featured host massmarrier on blogtalkradio
Wired and ready, Marisa DeFranco is not intimidated by US Sen. Scott Brown’s millions or Elizabeth Warren’s public and party support. She’s itching for debates and forums. She figures she’s going to win first the Dem primary and then the general on issues.
Listen to Marisa's interview on blogtalkradio.
January 17th, 2012
Marisa DeFranco Says She Can Beat Elizabeth Warren
WGBH By Adam Reilly
Not long ago, eight Democrats wanted to challenge Republican Scott Brown this fall for one of the state's two Senate seats. But as soon as Harvard Law School professor Elizabeth Warren jumped into the race, her rivals started bowing out. Now the Democratic field is down to just three people: Warren, Dover attorney Jim King and Middleton attorney Marisa DeFranco — who hasn’t been shy about attacking the frontrunner.
Read the article and watch Marisa's interview on WGBH.
January 4th, 2012
Marisa’s Interview with WGBH Greater Boston’s Emily Rooney:
Why DeFranco is the candidate to beat Senator Scott Brown
Watch Marisa's interview on WGBH where she explains why she’s the candidate who can beat Senator Scott Brown.
December 7th, 2011
Senate Candidates Forum
90.9 WBUR by Bianca Vázquez Toness
Senate Democratic Candidates Spar At Easton Forum
Stone Hill College debate
December 6th, 2011
The entire Stone Hill College debate is divided into four segments (scroll down on Patriot Legger page to view the videos).
Stone Hill College debate excerpts of Marisa
WGBH reporter Adam Reilly with Emily Rooney on Greater Boston Dec. 7, 2011 discuss the Stone Hill College debate.
WBUR reporter Bianca Vazquez Toness with Bob Oakes on Morning Edition Dec. 7, 2011 discuss Stone Hill College debate.
DeFranco Wins US Senate Democratic Candidates Straw Poll at North Quabbin Forum
Despite a pre-winter snow storm that delayed the arrival of Tony Cignoli, moderator for Thursday evening’s US Senate Democratic Candidates Forum, party faithful from Franklin County, Greenfield and the North Quabbin region arrived at the Ellinwood Country Club in Athol to welcome four of the remaining candidates hoping to win the primary and face off against Republican Senator Scott Brown during the 2012 election.
Immediately following the forum, a straw poll ballot was conducted which contained the names of each of the declared candidates, including the presumed front-runner, Elizabeth Warren.
The results were as follows:
DeFranco – 43.4% (23 votes)
Conroy - 28.3% (15 votes)
Warren - 18.9% (10 votes)
King - 9.4% ( 5 votes)
Participants in the evening’s forum included Tom Conroy, State Representative for the 13th Middlesex District, Marisa DeFranco, an immigration lawyer, Jim King, a corporate lawyer and Herb Robinson, an engineer. After a five minute introduction each candidate answered questions that were largely audience generated.
Elizabeth Warren, a Harvard Law School professor and former Special Advisor for the United States Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, was not in attendance.
Thursday’s forum was sponsored by the North Quabbin Democratic Coalition and the Democratic Town Committees of Athol, Barre, Buckland, Greenfield, New Salem, Northfield, Orange, Royalston, Templeton &Wendell. Democratic State Committee member, Nicole LaChapelle served as Master of Ceremonies.
The forum and straw poll were filmed by Athol- Orange Community Television (AOTV) and edited by Greenfield Community Television (GCTV). Public radio station WFCR was also on hand to record audio.
For further information on the forum, contact Orange Democratic Town Committee outreach coordinator, Genevieve Fraser at telephone # (978) 544-1872, or by email at FraserGenevieve@gmail.com
Marisa's interview on the Jeff Santos Show Radio AM 1510
November 16th, 2011
Listen to Marisa's interview on the Jeff Santos show.
DeFranco on fire at Dem’s primary debate
Local candidate for U.S. Senate slams banks and Brown, says she’s a fighter
By Sarah Thomas
You know it’s a debate sponsored by a college when one of the questions asked to a political candidate is, "What superhero would you like to be?"
“As a team player, I’d want to be one half of the Wonder Twins,” said Marisa DeFranco, a candidate with strong local roots who is competing with a field of five other Democrats to be nominated to take on Republican Scott Brown in the 2012 U.S. Senate election.
DeFranco and her opponents participated in their first formal debate this week, which was held Tuesday night at UMass-Lowell. The debate came after a tumultuous week for the already-contentious race, as Newton Mayor Setti Warren dropped out, citing financial pressure, and new polls showed Harvard professor Elizabeth Warren, the most recent candidate to throw her hat in the ring, with a 30-point lead over her nearest competition, City Year founder Alan Khazei.
This article was originally published in the Taunton Gazette on October 7th, 2011.
Comments on the Senate debate at UMass Lowell on October 4th, 2011
Watch the debate (at bottom of the page on the U Mass Lowell site).
"Marisa DeFranco, The Hammer: I loved Marisa DeFranco’s performance tonight. So much so, that I’d say she won it. Seriously. I walked into that debate hall tonight a big Elizabeth Warren supporter, which I still am, but DeFranco beat her on passion and substance. When DeFranco was skewering Treasury Secretary Tim Geithner and the federal government for making cheap money available to Wall Street banks (she mentioned Goldman Sachs—Obama’s number one private campaign donor—by name, which even Warren didn’t do), I felt like she was talking directly to me, and everyone else who knows that the largest financial institutions have a stranglehold on our government and economy. This woman knows what she’s talking about and knows how to get her message across."
This article was originally posted on richardhowe.com on October 5th, 2011.
"Some demonstrated good command on a lot of the issues, a broad range of issues. That was the case with Marisa DeFranco."
This article was originally posted on the 90.9 WBUR web site on October 5th, 2011.
“Why am I in this race?” she asked at one point. “To fight for the people against the powerful." DeFranco added: “Scott Brown, ready or not, here I come.”
This article was originally published in the Boston Globe on on October 5th, 2011.
September 28th, 2011
Register of Deeds John O'Brien Endorses Marisa DeFranco
(SALEM, MA) Today Democratic U.S. Senate Candidate Marisa DeFranco is thrilled to announce the endorsement of her campaign by Southern Essex County Register of Deeds John O’Brien. O’Brien, who has been leading the National effort to hold banks accountable for the damage that they have caused to the land recordation system across the Commonwealth of Massachusetts said, “She will be a strong voice for homeowners and people’s property rights when she is elected as our new United States Senator.” O’Brien further stated, “I was impressed by Marisa’s knowledge of the mortgage fraud situation and her courage in standing up to these major lenders and to the powers that be on Wall Street….we need that type of talent in the Senate. It is not often that I endorse a candidate in the Democratic primary election but Marisa is an exception.”
DeFranco says, “I am honored by Register O’Brien’s support and very excited. His endorsement is what real grassroots campaigning is all about…reaching out to people on the ground level and gaining the support of public officials who are in the daily fight for the people of the Commonwealth. I am proud to have the endorsement of someone like John, who actually walks the walk.”
September 9th, 2011
Dems take shots at Brown
Worcester Telegram and Gazette
By Steven H. Foskett Jr.
Marisa DeFranco, an immigration lawyer, said she would make him into "whatever is smaller than mincemeat, hands down."
...
As an immigration lawyer, Ms. DeFranco said she has experience fighting for people's rights, and talked about helping a gay Ugandan man avoid returning to his home country, where he feared torture. She proposed spending $100 billion on a green jobs package she said would create jobs.
...
Ms. DeFranco said the president and Democrats started negotiating from the middle and ended up losing the public option. She said lawmakers should have set their sites higher by fighting for a single-payer type system, and they may have ended up with something resembling a public option. "What they should have done is put single payer on the table, and they would have ended up with the public option, instead of putting the public option on the table and ending up with naught."
This article was originally published in the the Worcester Telegram and Gazette on September 9th, 2011.
July 7th, 2011
Appearance on WCVB Ch.5's On the Record
Left Ahead! Website
June 28th, 2011
DeFranco Path from Grassroots to Senate
Left Ahead! Website
A competent, confident candidate with a wide and deep platform joined us today to talk about her replacing U.S. Sen. Scott Brown next year. Marisa DeFranco explains how she’s the real thing and he a flash in the pan and abject survival-of-the-fittest pol.
Marisa meets with Natick DTC on June 22nd, 2011
Great night despite the crazy rain! Thanks Natick members.
June 13th, 2011
Democrats see opportunity in Senate race
The Boston Globe
By Michael Levenson
Suddenly, it seems, every Democratic state representative, mayor, and activist who has ever thought about running for higher office is gazing in the mirror and seeing a United States senator peering back.
...
"Some of us have star power, they just don’t know about it yet," said Marisa DeFranco, an immigration lawyer from Middleton who launched her candidacy in March. I, obviously, entered the race knowing my name is not recognized statewide. My strategy, which the national Democrats ignore at their peril, is to grow a grass-roots campaign."
This article was posted on the The Newton Democratic City Committee blog on June 6th, 2011.
June 6th, 2011
Thank you Marisa DeFranco for Visiting with Newton Dems
The Newton Democratic City Committee
By Shawn Fitzgibbons
We are grateful that Democratic Candidate for US Senate Marisa DeFranco visited with Newton Dems last week. She spoke eloquently about her values and plans for winning the primary and defeating Scott Brown next year.
This article was originally published in the Boston Globe on June 13th, 2011.
June 5th, 2011
Six candidates, one target: Scott Brown
Democratic Senate hopefuls rally the faithful at Lowell convention
Lowell Sun
By Chris Camire
LOWELL -- Six relatively little-known Democrats seeking to become the state's next U.S. senator blasted Scott Brown yesterday as they sought to convince party faithful they have what it takes to unseat the popular Wrentham Republican.
Many of the 3,000 delegates to flock to their party's annual convention at the Tsongas Center at UMass Lowell had their first up-close look at the lineup of candidates to have announced plans to seek the Democratic nomination.
...
DeFranco vowed to "end corporate welfare" by putting an end to bank bailouts and working to close the economic disparity between the rich and the poor.
"Big corporations are going to have to earn their money, just as the rest of us do," said DeFranco. "When we follow the rules and we support our unions, we will create jobs."
This article was originally published in the Lowell Sun on June 5th, 2011.
June 4th, 2011
Democratic Convention at the Tsongas Arena in Lowell, Mass
Marisa DeFranco Addresses Delegates at Massachusetts Democratic Convention
Posted on news.yahoo.com
Salem immigration lawyer and senatorial hopeful Marisa DeFranco addresses delegates during the Democratic Convention, Saturday, June 4, 2011, at the Tsongas Arena in Lowell, Mass.
All Declared Candidates for U.S. Senate
This article was posted on news.yahoo.com on June4th, 2011.
Candidate DeFranco delivers her message to the delegates
June 2nd, 2011
U.S. Senate candidate DeFranco is feisty and sincere
Letter to the Editor
Lincoln Journal
By Jean Palmer
A week ago, I heard DeFranco answer lots of questions about her candidacy at the Sudbury Democratic Town Committee monthly meeting. She is refreshingly frank, well-informed, and jargon-free. She believes in fundamental Democratic values, i.e., the people, the people, the people.
This article was originally published in the Lincoln Journal on June 2nd, 2011.
June 2nd, 2011
U.S. Senate Candidate DeFranco Speaks to the Few
Newton Patch
By Karla Vallance
DeFranco tells Democratic gathering that she is the one who will stand up for the little guy. ... She cast herself as a tireless fighter for causes she believes in. When an audience member said how discouraged she was at how money seemed to permeate and control every aspect of American politics, DeFranco's response: "What beats money is people. And ideas."
This article was originally published in the Newton Patch on June 2nd, 2011.
May 25th, 2011
Jeff Santos Show
AM 1510
Marisa was a guest on the Jeff Santos Show on May 25th, 2011 Listen to the podcast online.
Marisa speaks at Gloucester Democratic City Committee Brunch on May 1, 2011
U.S. Senate Candidate Marisa DeFranco with
Tom Ostrowski and Kathleen Kelliher Ostrowski
Happy Marathon Monday!
April 16th, 2012
...We are not stopping now, and we are encouraged and thrilled by your enthusiastic support. I am the candidate with the real-world, on the ground experience that it will take to beat Scott Brown. ...
Status Quo Interrupted
March 30th, 2012
We interrupt the regularly scheduled DC political machine to bring you breaking news from the field...there IS another candidate in this Democratic primary right here in the Commonwealth. ...
Poll Numbers
March 22nd, 2012
In the past few weeks, there has been a lot of talk about poll numbers - who's up, who's down, what the trends are, etc. Some of these are national, some are local, and some are being produced by the campaigns themselves. How about this for a poll number: over 80% of Americans disapprove of the job that their elected officials are doing in Washington, D.C. We need real solutions. What we don't need is more numbers, except for this:
1...
One Year Ago Today
March 18th, 2012
...Many of the problems that we faced as residents of the Commonwealth are still with us today. The tone in Washington has led voters to lose faith in their elected officials. There have been few, if any, proposals
aimed at thoroughly addressing our biggest challenges—jobs, energy independence, financial stability and immigration reform. ...
Let's Talk
March 16th, 2012
My message is and has been that I am in this race for one reason, and one reason only—to make people’s lives better…something I have been doing, on the ground and in the real world for the last 16+ years. ...
Debate Redux and Rebuff: DeFranco Challenges, Warren Declines
February 23rd, 2012
...voters of the Commonwealth deserve the opportunity to see candidates debate the serious issues...
DeFranco Campaign Heats Up
February 16th, 2012
Our campaign for U.S. Senate continues to heat up. From speaking engagements before students, union workers and Democratic Town Committees to increasing press coverage...
MARISA DEFRANCO STANDS FIRM ON WOMEN'S HEALTH
February 10th, 2012
I stand firm in my support of the President’s decision to support and protect women’s health, and I would expect Elizabeth Warren, who is also a pro-choice woman, to stand firm on women’s health without delay...
What an exciting past two weeks for Team DeFranco!
February 2nd, 2012
We wanted to update you on what’s been going on in the race...
Press Release
January 30th, 2012
U.S. SENATE CANDIDATE MARISA DEFRANCO CALLS ON PROFESSOR WARREN TO STOP DUCKING DEBATES AND FORUMS
January 30th, 2012
... Candidate Marisa DeFranco calls for more debates, and encourages her primary opponent, Elizabeth Warren, to stop skipping forums that have occurred across the Commonwealth...
Homestretch
January 26th, 2012
Just wanted to give you all a quick update and ask everyone to join our cause if you haven't already. Thanks to those who have! ...
A Call to Action
January 19th, 2012
... our campaign for honest and true progressive values has reached its second stage. In order to qualify to be on the ballot for the September 6th primary, the campaign must amass 10,000 signatures ...
Response to Results Oriented Leadership
December 21st, 2011
Reading the December 15th newsletter from Marisa only strengthened my engagement to our cause of electing a true Progressive to the “People’s Seat” here in Massachusetts. After seeing her in action in public life and on the campaign trail, I can honestly say that there is no one else more qualified...
Results Oriented Leadership
December 15th, 2011
This week we saw yet another candidate bow out of the race for the Democratic nomination for U.S. Senate in Massachusetts. As the field cedes to Washington and special interests, our campaign has grown and continues to be fueled by our grassroots efforts...
Marisa DeFranco Declares Victory in Last Night’s Democratic Forum
December 7th, 2011
One thing was clear in the Democratic Senate Candidates Forum last night at Stonehill College: Marisa DeFranco stood out and spoke out with conviction and truly addressed the issues facing the Commonwealth and who is best equipped to take on Scott Brown. ...
Why I Support Marisa
December 1st, 2011
My name is John O’Brien and I am the Southern Essex County Register of Deeds... Marisa was the first candidate to reach out to me and lend her support to my efforts in helping homeowners who have had their chains of title damaged by major lenders...
Join me in standing with the 99%
November 17th, 2011
Yesterday I traveled down to Boston to stand in solidarity with the 99% and Occupy Boston, as well as participate in a first time "live from Occupy Boston" broadcast with Jeff Santos from Revolution Boston on his Rebuild America radio program...
What a Week!
November 10th, 2011
This week, the nation saw a hallmark victory for unions and women’s rights. The Republican smear tactics didn’t work and fundamental human rights prevailed...
What Massachusetts is Talking About
November 3rd, 2011
While I have been running the past 7 months, I have been talking about the issues that working families care most about...
DeFranco Wins US Senate Democratic Candidates Straw Poll at N. Quabbin Forum
October 28th, 2011
Yesterday, Marisa participated in the North Quabbin U.S. Senate Democratic Candidates forum. After the forum, audience members and party faithfuls voted in a straw poll based on their candidate's preference and Marisa overwhelmingly won the vote with a whopping 43.4%! ...
DeFranco for Senate Re-Launches Social Media
October 26th, 2011
Today, my campaign is announcing the re-launch of our Social Media campaign. Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and other online social mediums have quickly become mainstays of the Political scene, allowing for individuals to be constantly updated with the campaign's latest news and with fresh, instant information...
Press Release
DO NOT Settle with Banks for Pittance
September 8th, 2011
We, the taxpayers bailed out the irresponsible and criminal banks to the tune of $700 billion, and that number does not even include the true cost, which Bloomberg News estimates at $12.8 trillion...
