Paul Tucker Announces Candidacy for State Representative

The following press release was submitted by Christopher Sicuranza: 

Paul Tucker officially announced his candidacy for State Representative Monday at a kick-off reception that drew more than 300 to the Hawthorne Hotel.

Tucker, Salem's Chief of Police, was introduced by Salem Mayor Kim Driscoll and State Rep. John Keenan, who lauded Tucker's commitment, dedication, and years of service to Salem.

"This is my first time running for public office, but it's not my first time running for Salem," Tucker noted referring to his Salem High Cross Country team experience in the 1970's. "I've been running for Salem my whole adult life."

Tucker, who holds a Bachelors and Masters Degrees in Criminal Justice, also earned a Law Degree and is a practicing attorney and member of the Massachusetts Bar. 

"College educated me to be a better police officer, detective and chief. Law School gave me a better understanding of the laws I was sworn to enforce.  For the past 32 years, the people of Salem have educated me on a daily basis about the issues that affect our city: domestic violence, intolerance, elder and domestic abuse, child neglect, property crimes, drug addiction, and gun violence. I have done my best to make our city a safer, saner and more tolerant place to live," Tucker said. 

"I know this city. Every neighborhood, block by block. I know the people who live here from new residents to families who have been here for generations.  I know their triumphs and tragedies. I

know when they need help and I know how to help.  Truth be told, constituent service an problem solving are the biggest parts of being a police officer today. As a public servant, I've always tried to take every call seriously because you never know when the small thing will be the big thing in someone's life," Tucker noted.

Tucker spoke of his support for the Mayor's Non-Discrimination Ordinance and his belief that when people stand up for each other, everyone benefits, "I have listened and learned so much from the people of Salem...our older citizens, our veterans, our immigrant neighbors, our young families, our university community, our business owners and workers of all ages and backgrounds...they are all part of what makes Salem great."

Tucker explained that his experiences on the police force as an officer, detective and chief, his volunteer work in the community, his public safety and criminal justice training have prepared him well to take on issues as a legislator. They give him a keen understanding of cause and effect and what needs to be done at the state level to help families in Salem.

Tucker said he wants to be State Representative to put his experience to work to strengthen our economy, create jobs, contain health care costs, provide excellent education at every level, and promote affordable housing. "I believe those are the keys to a better future for Salem because they address the root causes of so many problems law enforcement now deals with today,"

He intends to form a strong and effective partnership with Sen. Lovely and Mayor Driscoll to ensure Salem will continue to receive it's fair share of grants and programs and the state aide needed to fund schools, public safety and municipal services.

Tucker concluded, " Salem is a premiere city, and a city I would be proud to represent at the State House.  I am running for State Representative, i am running for Salem. I look forward to campaigning through the Summer and Fall to make that a reality. ... I won't let you down." 

Paul Tucker is a lifelong Salem resident. He and his wife Ann have been married for 32 years and have three grown children.  He is a valued Boys and Girls Club Board member, youth basketball and Little League baseball coach.  An avid runner and basketball player, Paul plays in several Men's Leagues.

Tucker also is an effective college and police academy instructor and adjunct faculty member at Salem State University, Endicott College and North Shore Community College.