HOLYOKE — State Rep. Patricia Duffy defeated challenger Dori Dean in the Democratic primary for the 5th Hampden district, which includes Holyoke and part of Chicopee.
Duffy has been a democratic member of the Massachusetts House of Representatives and has represented the 5th Hampden District since January 2021.
Unofficial results showed Duffy gathered 3,027 votes to Dean’s 795 in Holyoke. In Chicopee, Duffy earned 166 votes to Dean’s 49 votes.
After the win, Duffy thanked the voters of the 5th Hampden District for choosing her as the Democratic nominee.
“I am deeply grateful for the confidence you have placed in me and mindful of the responsibility that comes with it,” Duffy said in a public statement sent to Reminder Publishing.
She explained that throughout this campaign, residents shared their experiences, concerns and hopes for the future of our communities.
“Those conversations have reinforced my commitment to listen closely, bring people together, and advocate with persistence and integrity for everyone in our district on Beacon Hill,” Duffy said.
Duffy also thanked her opponent for running a community-centered campaign. “Our democracy is strengthened when people are willing to step forward and run for elected office.”
She will now face independent challenger Jose Candelario Gonzalez in November.
Duffy talked about her outlook over the next two months, stating, “As we turn to the general election, I look forward to continuing this work alongside the people of the 5th Hampden District — meeting residents where they are, listening to voices that too often go unheard and pursuing practical solutions rooted in our shared values. It is an honor to represent this district, and I will keep working every day to earn your trust. I respectfully ask for your vote this November so we can continue building a stronger future for our communities together.”
Dean was in positive spirits after the loss. She thanked her supporters and said she was proud of the campaign she ran in a public statement sent to Reminder Publishing. “We spoke honestly, treated people with respect, and brought attention to matters that deserve serious action. I am especially thankful for the people I met and for the stories they trusted me to hear,” Dean said.
Dean also congratulated Duffy on her win. “Although this is not the result we hoped for, I respect the decision of the voters. I congratulate Representative Duffy on winning the primary. I wish her success in the November election and hope she will continue listening to the people of Holyoke and Ward 3 in Chicopee.”
Her defeat doesn’t mean she surrenders her responsibility to her community, Dean said.
She stated that she entered the race because the people of the 5th Hampden District deserve strong schools, stable housing, good jobs, safe neighborhoods and reliable public services. She also spoke about supporting police officers and firefighters, honoring veterans, standing with military families and protecting their future. She called for responsible investment, open government and representation that listens to the public.
“Those issues still matter,” Dean said. “My commitment to Holyoke and Chicopee began long before this campaign, and it will continue after tonight. I encourage everyone who joined us to remain involved. Attend public meetings. Ask questions. Support your neighbors. Hold elected officials accountable. Our communities are stronger when residents participate and make their voices heard.”
