Patricia Duffy Announces Re-Election Campaign for State Representative

Patricia Duffy Announces Re-Election Campaign for State Representative, Citing Record of Historic Investment and Local Advocacy

HOLYOKE, MA – Today, State Representative Patricia Duffy officially announced her candidacy for re-election, highlighting a tenure defined by landmark funding for veterans, expanded educational opportunities, and a fierce commitment to local autonomy.

Since taking office, Pat Duffy has focused on delivering tangible results for the district, most notably joining the advocacy for a $400 million state investment for the Veterans Home. Beyond the financial commitment, Representative Duffy was instrumental in ensuring that local stakeholders maintain a seat on the statewide Veterans Home board, guaranteeing that those who live and work in the community have a direct say in the care of our heroes.

“Our work has always been about making sure this community isn’t just heard, but is leading the conversation,” said Pat Duffy. “From the halls of the State House to residents in the district, my priority is ensuring our district has the resources and the ability to shape our own future. I do that by both bringing Holyokers’ voices to Boston and my colleagues to Holyoke.

Duffy has hosted both the House Chair of the Joint Committee on Housing and the Gateway Cities Legislative Caucus in Holyoke, bringing them together with developers looking to take advantage of the House Development Incentive Program (HDIP). She went on to lead the advocacy for increasing access to that program in the Affordable Homes Act.  Now Holyoke has four housing projects developing under that program and more in the pipeline.

A Champion for Local Control and Education

Pat Duffy helped lead the advocacy for returning public schools to local control, achieved July 1, 2025. Pat believes that empowerment starts in the classroom, a belief backed by a proven track record of securing:

• Mass Mentoring funding and Farm to School fresh grants to support student health and mentorship.
• Direct funding for Homework House, providing critical after-school support for Holyoke’s youth.
• Significant investment in Holyoke Community College (HCC) workforce development to bridge the gap between education and high-quality employment.

Economic Innovation and Community Strength

Representative Duffy has also spearheaded legislative efforts to modernize the region’s economy and governance. This includes the establishment of the Bridge to Prosperity pilot program and the facilitation of Home Rule petitions to assist Holyoke in modernizing its city government.

She also is ready to act in emergencies.  In the late summer of 2025, a fire severely damaged a levy on Holyoke’s third-level canal.  Pat immediately convened administration and local experts.  Shortly thereafter, Holyoke was awarded $750,000 in emergency funds to prevent serious flooding.

Pat’s commitment to the district’s cultural fabric remains equally strong, having successfully secured funding for the Fiestas Patronales, local Veterans’ lunches, the St. Patrick’s Day parade, and other community-building initiatives that celebrate the diverse spirit of the region.

“We have built incredible momentum,” Pat continued. “But there is more to be done to ensure our economy grows, our schools thrive, and our veterans receive the dignity they earned. I am asking for your vote to continue this vital work.”

About Representative Patricia Duffy

Patricia Duffy, a Democrat from Holyoke, was elected to represent the 5^th Hampden District in the Massachusetts House of Representatives in November 2020.   She currently serves on the following committees:

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