Worcester Nonprofit Leader Ron Waddell Announces Run For State Representative

WORCESTER, MA — Ron Waddell, a Worcester nonprofit leader and community advocate, announced Monday that he is running for State Representative in the 15th Worcester District, setting up a challenge to longtime incumbent Rep. Mary S. Keefe, a Democrat who currently holds the seat.

Waddell shared the announcement in a social media post on Monday, saying he officially submitted his nomination papers and signatures to the State Elections Division in Boston.

“Today became official,” Waddell wrote. “For the first time, my name is officially on the ballot.”

In the post, Waddell described his campaign as one focused on “collaboration,” “accountability,” and “showing up for people,” while reflecting on his personal background growing up with a single mother and navigating foster care and public assistance programs.

Waddell, who is raising two sons and leads a nonprofit organization in Worcester, said his candidacy represents “ordinary people with extraordinary commitment” stepping forward to lead.

The 15th Worcester District includes portions of Worcester. Keefe has represented the district on Beacon Hill since 2012 and has previously focused on issues including education, healthcare, housing and services for seniors and working families.

Waddell indicated he plans to begin campaigning across the district immediately.“We’re officially on the ballot,” he wrote. “I’ll see you on the doors.”

See Also:

• Rep. Jim McGovern Launches Reelection Campaign
• Worcester City Manager Proposes First $1 Billion Budget