Civics Sunday: Degan Throws Hat into Ring

Connor Degan

When Connor Degan heard of Rep. Carolyn Dykema’s unexpected resignation from the House of Representatives, he shot home to ask his wife Julia if he should run. If not now, then when. At age 29, Degan has his sights set on the newly formed 8th Middlesex District which includes Hopkinton, Holliston, Sherborn, and Precincts 2 and 3 of Millis.

A product of the Hopkinton School system, Degan received his B.A, in political science from Roger Williams College. For the past six years Degan has held the office of town clerk in Hopkinton as well as a Justice of the Peace and Notary Public. Degan has until May 3rd to return his nomination papers to the respective town halls in the precinct. He is aware that the September primary holds only two announced candidates to date, himself and James Arena – DeRosa, and there could be more prospective candidates.

With help wanted signs everywhere, I asked Degan how he could help local companies secure the workers they needed. He stated that by frequenting local businesses, companies would see more income and thereby give employees more pay and benefits. Degan’s wife Julia works in the restaurant industry, and he noted they are having a hard time finding help.

No stranger to the subject of affordable housing, Degan did his college thesis on the subject and has served on Hopkinton’s Housing Authority. A homeowner, Degan said he and his wife were able to afford a home in the past year thanks to a helpful realtor. He stated that low-income properties still exist in Hopkinton.

In favor of driver’s licenses for the undocumented which the House of Representatives just passed and now must clear the Senate, Degan believes the new law gives law enforcement a tool to deal who individuals who they encounter. When it comes to critical race theory, Degan said he thought it was taught mainly in law school but is at ease with the subject being administered in public schools as part of a history lesson.

Asked if successful in his bid for the job if he would use his own vehicle or public transportation, he said in his conversations with Carolyn Dykema, she related that the train to Boston was impractical. Going to different events directly from the state house and a tight schedule make the use of one’s own vehicle unavoidable. Degan noted that Reps. do get a mileage stipend.

With Irish roots on both sides of his family, his mother usually provides a gathering spot for his family to gather for St. Patrick’s Day.

Bobby Blair

2 Comments

  1. Doris Carver on March 14, 2022 at 9:20 am

    Connor will make a great State Rep make it happen I have trust in Connor.

  2. Darlene Hayes on March 14, 2022 at 11:54 am

    Connor’s municipal experience, ethics & his commitment to the community is exceptional. These qualities, plus his visibility & accessibility to constituents as the welcoming face at Hopkinton’s Town Hall for the past 6+ yrs, combine that on his own initiative attends many community events just as a supportive & involved resident. These qualities reflect that Connor Degan is ready to be the next State Rep. of the 8th Middlesex District.

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