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The following was submitted by Ryan O’Malley:
To the residents of Malden, Melrose, Wakefield, Stoneham, Reading, and Winchester:
Over the last few weeks, I have met with many residents across our district to learn about the issues that are important to you. Based on those conversations, I am excited to formally announce that I am running to be your next state Senator for the Fifth Middlesex District.
I have served on the Malden City Council for the last 10 years, where I have advocated for public education, government accountability, environmental justice, and the economic development potential of public art.
During this time, I have witnessed the impact of inadequate state funding for public education in our district and across the Commonwealth. There have been various attempts to address the failings of Chapter 70, which funds education, including the Student Opportunities Act and the Fair Share Amendment (the “Millionaires Tax”).
While well meaning, these changes have not resolved the underlying dysfunction of the basic foundation education formula, and in some respects have exacerbated inequities when applied to the broken foundation formula.
I approach the issue of public education funding, not only as a local official, but also as a former Malden Public School student who received Title I early reading intervention. Adequate resources and dedicated elementary and secondary school teachers provided me with the tools to succeed and allowed me to recently graduate from Boston College Law School.
I understand firsthand the importance of adequate funding and support for students in need, whether that be with special education, ELL, or for students with trauma.
In addition to being a fierce advocate for education funding reform, I will also fight to bring accountability and transparency to Beacon Hill. Every public body board and commission across the Commonwealth has to follow the Open Meeting and Public Records Laws. These laws also apply to Youth Councils, which are made up of children and young adults. If our children have to follow the Open Meeting and Public Records Laws, then so should our state legislators.
It is a stain on the reputation of Massachusetts, which is traditionally considered a leader in the nation, that our legislators have exempted themselves from these basic good governance laws.
As your next state senator, I promise to compel compliance with these laws and the law overwhelmingly passed to audit the Legislature.
We are living in a perilous time for our nation and we can no longer take it for granted that the government will follow the law. That is why we need bold local and state leaders who are willing to follow the law and the lawful will of the people.
To learn more about me and my positions, please go to OMALLEYSENATE.COM or connect with me on Facebook and Instagram @OMALLEYSENATE to stay updated on the campaign.
Over the next few months, I look forward to earning your support and vote on Sept. 1, 2026 to be your next state senator for the Fifth Middlesex District.
