McKnight’s Momentum Signals Possible Shift in the 11th Hampden District
Springfield, MA — State Representative candidate Johnnie McKnight has secured significant endorsements in his campaign for the 11th Hampden District seat. State Senator Adam Gomez and former City Councilor and mayoral candidate Justin Hurst have both thrown their support behind McKnight, a move that could bolster his bid as the election approaches.
Senator Gomez, who has represented the Hampden District since 2021 and previously served as Ward 1’s City Councilor, praised McKnight’s commitment to his community and progressive values. “As the current Senator for the Hampden District, I know Johnnie would make a great colleague in the Statehouse,” said Gomez. “His personal story, his belief in his hometown, and his commitment to grassroots advocacy and change make him a strong ally in the fight for progressive policies that continue to advance our communities. I’m proud to endorse Johnnie McKnight as the next State Representative of the 11th Hampden District.”
Justin Hurst, who served on the Springfield City Council from 2014 to 2023 and ran for mayor last year, echoed similar sentiments. “When I ran for Mayor, I called for transparency, proactivity, and for City Hall to engage with a new and diverse population here in Springfield. I believe that Johnnie McKnight’s campaign for State Representative embodies these very principles,” Hurst stated. “It’s our time for change – and it can only be done with new leadership.”
McKnight expressed deep gratitude for the endorsements, acknowledging the influence both leaders have had on his political journey. “I’m immensely honored to have earned the endorsements of Senator Gomez and Councilor Hurst,” McKnight said. “They have both been exemplary public servants to the City of Springfield and have inspired me to run for office. I look forward to working together with them to reduce the cost of living, end violence in the city, and improve quality of life for all of Springfield’s residents.”
Reflecting on his journey and the influence of his grandmother, McKnight shared a personal moment that underscores his dedication to his family and community. “My grandmother Betty taught me perseverance and compassion. Although she never met my daughters, Autumn Rae and Cora Justice, I raise them with the lessons she instilled in me,” McKnight said.
McKnight also addressed the challenges of divisive politics, emphasizing the importance of democracy and the need for new leadership in Springfield. “Today, standing in the heart of our district, I see the stark contrast between those who unite us and those who divide,” he remarked. “Bud Williams, when discussing my candidacy, says, ‘It’s a democracy; everyone deserves to run,’ attempting to minimize our efforts. However, I am thankful for our democracy, which prevents the entrenchment of self-serving individuals and overstayed tenures in office.”
McKnight’s campaign has garnered support from other notable organizations and groups, reflecting a broad coalition of backers. The Planned Parenthood Advocacy Fund of Massachusetts has endorsed him, recognizing his commitment to ensuring access to sexual and reproductive health care. “As the father of two girls, I am honored to receive the endorsement of the Planned Parenthood Advocacy Fund of Massachusetts and am deeply committed to ensuring all patients can safely and easily access sexual and reproductive health care in our community,” McKnight said.
The National Association of Social Workers – Massachusetts Chapter (NASW-MA) Political Action for Candidate Election (PACE) committee has also endorsed McKnight. “We are confident that Johnnie McKnight will bring his lived experience and commitment to the community to the State House, making him an effective and equity-minded leader for all people in the 11th Hampden District,” said Kim Hokanson, NASW-MA PACE Chair.
Additional endorsements include support from Mass Alliance and the Progressive Democrats of Massachusetts, further solidifying McKnight’s standing as a progressive candidate committed to equity and inclusivity.
As McKnight’s campaign gains momentum, he continues to advocate for affordable housing, accessible healthcare, and the well-being of all residents in the 11th Hampden District. With the primary election on September 3rd, McKnight urges voters to choose a future of unity, action, and peace.
For more information on McKnight’s campaign, visit johnniemcknightforstatehouse.com.
