| Lorenzo Gaines is a candidate for State Representative in Springfield's 11th Hampden District. We met recently at a Pine Point location to update an earlier interview. The conversation opened with Gaines issuing a public apology to Mario Hornsby, Sr., father of the slain scholar and athlete. In addition to saying he was sorry about the miscommunication, Lorenzo stated, "In no way did I intend to disrespect the grieving process or his son's memory or legacy. I believe a miscommunication occurred when we were introduced and the Bishop of my church encouraged me to leave my contact information with him (Hornsby, Sr)." "My contact information states that I am a candidate for State Representative. In no way was I campaigning or politicking during a very emotional process." As we continued the conversation, Candidate Gaines spoke strongly against repealing the State Income Tax. He mentioned how that loss of revenue would have a negative impact on Springfield. He added, "It will destroy our social services and infrastructure." On the issues of crime and violence in Springfield and the plight of our youth, Lorenzo commented, "Education and awareness at an early age is a key component." He added that he favored, "Empowering parents to teach their children to not use violence but alternative means of dispute resolution." Gaines also suggested the allocation of more state dollars to fund after school programs and career training. Expanding on the topic of education, Lorenzo Gaines stated that he is attempting to meet with newly appointed School Superintendent Dr. Alan Ingram. He also plans on meeting with a data specialist within the School Department to get current numbers to address the drop out rate and MCAS scores and passage rates. On other issues of importance, Gaines supports the Data Recovery Center being placed at the STCC technology park. "I support jobs and business opportunities coming to my district." His comments on the Mason Square Library were, "I support the City Council resolution of reclaiming the Urban League building for use as the library. However, the eminent domain process should be the last resort. We should make further attempts at reasonable negotiation." As with the first interview, Lorenzo Gaines projected himself as professional, enthusiastic and well prepared. On the subject of his campaign, he commented, "We have gotten positive response. I have gone to over 1000 doors personally, people are excited and I have been successful raising funds." Gaines also stated plans and visions, if elected, for his first 100 days in office. "I will hold a Town Hall style meeting for citizens of the district and a youth conference." He also said he would meet with other members of the Western Massachusetts legislative delegation to build and promote unity and later meet with the Governor. The primary election will be held on September 16. Challengers Chelan Brown and Lorenzo Gaines will face incumbent Benjamin Swan. Lorenzo Gaines Email Link |
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| Lorenzo Gaines |
| Lorenzo Gaines makes a statement against the repealing of the State Income Tax. Click on the above video. |
| Lorenzo Gaines states what actions he will take, if elected, in the first 100 days in office as State Representative, 11th Hampden District. |
| Speaking with candidate Lorenzo Gaines we covered a broad range of issues including the ballot question regarding repeal of the State Income Tax, crime and violence in Springfield, education, and the location of the Data Recovery Center and the Mason Square Library. |
| Lorenzo Gaines speaks here of crime, violence and youth issues. He expresses views on the Mayor's Flex Squad, Community Policing and parental involvement. |