Rich Haggerty

Rich Haggerty is a Democratic politician currently serving as a member of the Massachusetts House of Representatives, representing the 30th Middlesex District. This district encompasses the towns of Woburn and Reading. Haggerty has held various leadership roles throughout his political career, including his current position as chair of the Joint Committee on Housing. His legislative work has focused on several key areas, including housing, finance, and climate-related issues. Additionally, Haggerty has a background in local government, having served on the Woburn City Council prior to his current role in the state legislature.

Early life and career

Rich Haggerty was born into a family with deep roots in the Woburn community. He is the great-grandson of J.D. Haggerty, who established the Woburn Daily Times in 1901, indicating a longstanding connection to local journalism and civic engagement. His family background also includes his grandfather, Edward Costello, who had a distinguished career as a firefighter in Medford, Massachusetts. This familial legacy may have influenced Haggerty's commitment to public service and community involvement.

Haggerty completed his secondary education at Woburn High School, where he likely developed an early interest in civic affairs and leadership. He furthered his education by earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science from the University of New Hampshire, with a particular focus on Foreign Policy. This academic background provided him with a foundational understanding of governmental systems and international relations, which would later inform his work in public office.

Before entering the Massachusetts House of Representatives, Haggerty had a notable career in local government. He served on the Woburn City Council, where he held the position of President from 2014 to 2019. His tenure on the council allowed him to gain valuable experience in governance, community issues, and the legislative process at the municipal level. Additionally, he served as an alderman at-large from 2010 to 2019, further solidifying his role as a prominent figure in local politics.

Legislative service

Rich Haggerty was elected to the Massachusetts House of Representatives, where he represents the 30th Middlesex District. His legislative service is characterized by his active participation in various committees that address critical issues affecting his constituents and the state as a whole. As of the 2025-26 session, he serves as the chairperson of the Joint Committee on Housing, a role that underscores his commitment to addressing housing challenges in Massachusetts.

In addition to his leadership on the housing committee, Haggerty has been involved in several other committees that focus on financial, economic, and climate-related matters. This breadth of committee assignments reflects his dedication to tackling a range of issues that impact the lives of residents in his district and beyond. His work in these committees allows him to influence legislation that aims to improve economic conditions, promote sustainable practices, and enhance the quality of life for constituents.

Haggerty's legislative priorities are informed by his experiences in local government and his understanding of the needs of his community. His role as a state representative enables him to advocate for policies that align with the interests of the residents of Woburn and Reading, as well as the broader goals of the Democratic Party in Massachusetts.

Policy focus and district

In his capacity as a state legislator, Rich Haggerty has focused on several key policy areas that are essential to the well-being of his constituents. His role as chair of the Joint Committee on Housing positions him at the forefront of discussions surrounding housing affordability, availability, and related issues. Given the ongoing challenges related to housing in Massachusetts, Haggerty's leadership in this area is critical for developing effective solutions that address the needs of families and individuals seeking stable and affordable housing options.

Haggerty's involvement in financial and economic committees further highlights his commitment to fostering economic growth and stability within his district. By engaging in discussions and legislative initiatives that promote economic development, he aims to create an environment conducive to job creation and business growth. This focus is particularly relevant in the context of the evolving economic landscape and the need for policies that support both local businesses and residents.

Additionally, Haggerty's attention to climate-related issues reflects a growing recognition of the importance of environmental sustainability. His participation in committees that address climate concerns indicates his awareness of the need for policies that promote responsible environmental stewardship and mitigate the impacts of climate change. This focus aligns with broader trends in state and national politics, where environmental issues are increasingly at the forefront of legislative agendas.

Beyond his legislative duties, Haggerty is actively involved in various community organizations. He serves on the board of the Woburn Friends of VNA and is a member of the Middlesex County Child Sexual Abuse Prevention Partnership. His engagement with these organizations demonstrates his commitment to addressing critical social issues and supporting community initiatives that enhance the well-being of residents.

In summary, Rich Haggerty's career as a state legislator is marked by his dedication to serving the interests of his constituents in the 30th Middlesex District. His background in local government, combined with his academic credentials, has equipped him with the skills and knowledge necessary to navigate the complexities of state politics. Through his work on key committees and his involvement in community organizations, Haggerty continues to play a significant role in shaping policies that impact the lives of those he represents.