School Committee member and local insurance broker Joseph “Mitch” Pentowski announced yesterday that he will enter the 1992 Republican primary race for state representative, marking a shift from his lifelong status as an independent voter to join the GOP by the end of the week.
Pentowski, 61, described his conversion to the Republican Party as a natural progression, citing his past local leadership as an organizer for Independents for Bush and Independents for Weld. “I’ve been a great fan and backer of President Bush,” Pentowski said. “He is an excellent role model—he and his wife… I strongly support Gov. [William] Weld and Lt. Gov. [Paul] Cellucci. I think they’re going in the right direction and I’d like to join them.”
Targeting the 17-Year Incumbency
Pentowski is eyeing the legislative seat currently held by 17-year incumbent state Rep. Gregory Sullivan, a Norwood Democrat who has not yet indicated whether he will seek re-election. Sullivan’s recent unsuccessful bid for town treasurer—where he was defeated by incumbent William Crozier after pledging to resign his legislative seat if victorious—has energized potential challengers who argue the misstep proves Sullivan’s commitment to the House has waned.
Positioning himself as an energetic alternative, Pentowski pointed to his professional background: “I’ve got experience in the insurance field and in business, and I feel I could reflect Norwood’s thinking. I’d have a little extra enthusiasm.” While postponing the release of his detailed campaign platform until February, Pentowski pledged to maintain a high road. “I don’t want to say anything against Greg Sullivan,” he said. “What I say is positive. My game plan is not to compare myself with anybody. I want to use a classy, positive campaign.”
Archival Note: This article has been dynamically reconstructed from the original public record print archives of the Patriot Ledger
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