Change Address

VOTE411 Voter Guide

2026 State House Sixteenth Essex District

The Massachusetts House of Representatives comprises 160 members, each representing a district of approximately 40,000 people and elected to a two-year term with no term limits. As required by the Massachusetts Constitution, the House meets year-round in either formal or informal sessions to consider statewide legislation. The Massachusetts House is led by the Speaker of the House, who is elected by the members of the body at the beginning of each two-year legislative session.

Click a candidate icon to find more information about the candidate. To compare two candidates, click the "compare" button. To start over, click a candidate icon.

  • Candidate picture

    Francisco E. Paulino
    (Dem)

  • Candidate picture

    Celina A. Reyes
    (Dem)

Biographical Information

What legislation would you support to address the rising costs-of-living for any of the following: housing, childcare, transportation, utilities and groceries?

Discuss your thoughts on how to best balance energy affordability with the state’s clean energy goals.

How do you propose to make health care more affordable in Massachusetts?

How can the state increase funding to municipalities that have difficulties providing basic needs without Proposition 2 ½ overrides?

How would you propose to ensure the security and independence of state elections in the face of possible interference by federal agents and activists?

How do you plan to protect the legal rights and safety of immigrants and their families?

Candidate has not yet responded.
Candidate has not yet responded.
Candidate has not yet responded.
Candidate has not yet responded.
Candidate has not yet responded.
Candidate has not yet responded.
I will support legislation that makes Massachusetts more affordable for working families. This includes increasing access to affordable housing, protecting tenants, supporting first-time homebuyers, expanding childcare affordability, and investing in programs that help families access quality early education. As a childcare educator and advocate, I understand the burden families face. I will also support policies that lower utility and transportation costs, strengthen consumer protections, and ensure families do not have to choose between paying bills, buying groceries, or caring for their children.
Massachusetts must continue moving toward a clean energy future while making sure working families are not left behind. I support investments in renewable energy, energy efficiency programs, and environmental protections while ensuring costs remain affordable for residents. We must expand programs that help families lower their energy bills, improve homes, and create good-paying clean energy jobs. A successful transition must protect our environment while supporting low-income and middle-class communities.
Health care is a basic need, and families should be able to access quality care without financial hardship. I support policies that reduce prescription drug costs, expand access to preventive care, mental health services, and community-based health programs. We must address health disparities and ensure that every family, regardless of income or background, has access to affordable, culturally competent care. Investing in prevention and accessibility will strengthen our communities.
The state must strengthen partnerships with cities and towns by increasing local aid and ensuring resources reach communities with the greatest needs. Municipalities like Lawrence and Methuen need fair funding for schools, infrastructure, public safety, housing, and essential services. I support a more equitable distribution of state resources, investments in economic development, and policies that help cities provide quality services without placing additional burdens on taxpayers.
Protecting democracy means protecting safe, fair, and accessible elections. I support maintaining strong election security systems, protecting the independence of local election officials, and ensuring voters have confidence in the process. We must continue investing in secure technology, transparency, and voter education while preventing intimidation or interference. Every eligible voter deserves the opportunity to participate freely and safely.
As an immigrant and community leader, I understand the contributions immigrant families make to Massachusetts. I will support policies that protect basic rights, promote access to education, health care, and essential services, and ensure families are treated with dignity and respect. We must strengthen trust between communities and institutions, support pathways to opportunity, and make sure every resident feels safe participating in our communities.