Throughout the Fourth Middlesex District, Ken Donnelly is a familiar name. Whether you notice the numerous campaign signs or bumper stickers on cars driving up and down Mass. Ave., Donnelly's name seems to be everywhere in the community. Since Donnelly's first run for the state Senate last fall, he no doubt has become a more recognizable member of the Arlington community. Clearly, Donnelly’s community involvement did not begin with his campaign last fall. In actuality, community involvement and public service much defines Donnelly’s lifelong work. "It is a good feeling to help others,” he said.

Donnelly placed second after last November's special election to fill the state Senate seat vacated by longtime state Senator Robert A. Havern. His second-place finish last fall to 17-year state Rep. J. James Marzilli Jr., Democrat of Arlington, did not dissuade Donnelly from running again during this election cycle. "This is a critical stage in our time, and that requires us to act immediately; we need elected officials to have the courage to speak up and to lead the way toward solving complex issues facing our society today," he said. "I believe I have the courage, commitment and strong leadership to serve and protect the vital interests of this community."

Donnelly sat down for an interview in July in his modest, bustling Mass. Ave. campaign headquarters in Arlington Heights to discuss his campaign and the issues. Clearly busy, balancing the demands of work, family and a campaign, Donnelly was upbeat, direct, enthusiastic and passionate as he spoke about the issues he believes are important to the district.

He expressed strong views about ensuring a quality, cost-effective healthcare system while expanding economic opportunity for all our residents. Donnelly also said we must “clean up our environment and become leaders in alternative energy,” beginning with breaking our dependence on foreign oil and suggesting an expansion of our public transportation service as one solution.

Additionally, Donnelly said firmly that an educated workforce is a critical component to our competition in a global economy. “We must continue to meet the needs of all children,” he said, “while bearing in mind our responsibility to seek new and innovative ways to invest in education and continue to honor important educational services and mandates for all children.” With regard to social issues, Donnelly is a supporter of gay marriage and abortion rights.

In these times of fiscal uncertainty, Donnelly said, "We need to make sure we have the proper funding if we want to have a good quality state." He said Massachusetts must “harness the extraordinary brain power and labor talent in order to expand our economy through good jobs in areas such as the life sciences, energy, technology and healthcare.”

As far as new ways to raise revenue, Donnelly believes the recent discussions about a casino gambling plan as a new source of funds could be a good way to bring extra money to the state. He added: "I understand the different ways people want to address issues, and at the same time, I am open to different types of solutions."