ATHOL — State Rep. Susannah Whipps is seeking reelection to a fifth term and is once again being challenged by Republican Jeffrey Raymond. Whipps represents the 2nd Franklin District, which stretches from Winchendon to Greenfield.
Raymond last challenged her in 2022. There is no Democratic nominee. Whipps said she believes it is important to note her status as an Independent.
She is the only member of the House of Representatives who does not belong to a political party. “I think that’s a really important piece,” she said. “I am absolutely different than my colleagues in the sense that I don’t toe any party lines and I’m focused on people more than partisan politics.
I never realized how few Independents there are elected nationwide.” Whipps said her main reason for seeking another term is the people in the district and those who come to her office. She noted her family has been a part of Athol for the past seven generations.
“I’m really proud of the constituent services we offer. My aide Rachel (McMahon) and I are very hands-on in the community,” she said. “One of the most rewarding things is to help people have a better relationship with the state and make sure they have access to the resources they need.
That’s something I feel we do very well.” Raymond did not respond to phone calls and emails seeking an interview, but at a recent appearance at the Orange American Legion Post 172 to speak with other conservative candidates, the Athol Republican.
