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No. 7: Give an example of an alliance where you helped each build a consensus and cite the result.
Thielman pointed to his professional work involved in building schools for low-income people, which requires forming coalitions among community leaders in such places as Harlem, Watts and North Cambridge. “The key to coalitions is bringing together people who don’t know they are [part of a coalition],” he said, citing his work at Spy Pond Park.
Valeri was direct: He said he not forged any political alliances, but he has formed alliances in business. He cited helping printing clients, including IBM, work out a solution.
Worden, a lawyer for a Boston firm, noted his work with contested wills. He said his aim is to avoid Bleak House-like litigation – that is, the kind that continues until all client money is gone. In town; worked to protect threatened neighborhoods, but he gave no example.
Garballey said that during flooding, he saw cases of raw sewage in basements in Arlington and West Medford, and responded by calling the MWRA.
He referred to the “controversy on the SC last year,” but provided no specifics about how this related to the question. He said he “led the effort to rescue the history chair at AHS and minority hiring.” To the latter, he offered no details.
O’Brien discussed the Walsh-Healy bill, a 1936 labor measure that improved working conditions and was a precursor to occupational safety promoted by OSHA. Healy was O'Brien's maternal grandfather. "My grandfather knew how essential it was and committed to it fully," said. "For me, the lesson is that coalition building is best done when one gives
much of their time and effort helping others."
No. 8: What is your view of pending auto-insurance competition rating legislation?
Valeri said he favors “anything that improves competition.”
Worden said auto insurance is “something that afflicts us all, even me in my electric car.” He added that rates should be based on one’s current driving record.
O’Brien said, “Insurance doesn’t lend itself to competition.” He said he opposes using socioeconomic factors to rate insurance.
Thielman said he would look at this issue with regard to those in greatest economic need.
Closing statements
In one-minute closing statement, the candidates focused on their final impressions.
Worden said he would try to being legal clarity to his representation of the 33rd Middlesex district.
"I want to vote the voice of the people,” Valeri said.
Apparently referring to the Ottoson issue, Thielman offered, “I have learned a great deal. Mistakes will make me a better public servant.” He provided no further details.
O’Brien said: “I won’t be beholden to a special interest. I’m beholden to those who vote me in.”
Garballey said: “I’ve always tried to employ communication and character – without an agenda.”
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News 
Enuma Elish
performs "Metropolis" Thursday, Nov. 20, at 8 p.m. at the Regent
Theater. General admission...
