Bailey Could Seek State Rep. Seat

The Jeff Bailey 2014 campaign will begin tonight in Mansfield. State Rep. Shaunna O'Connell (R-Taunton) is hosting a fundraiser tonight in Mansfield for Bailey's campaign committee. The Attleboro pastor unsuccessfully ran against Democratic state Sen. James Timilty last year. This time, he is leaning toward running for the state representative position held by Democrat Paul Heroux. 

Speaking Monday night during the Attleboro Republican City Committee meeting at the All Saints Anglican Church, Bailey said he would run for state office in 2014.

"I'm not committing to anything, but right now I'm kind of leaning toward the state rep. seat," said Bailey, adding, "We'll see what the landscape looks like for state Senate as well."

Heroux has been in office since January. He defeated one-term Republican incumbent George Ross in November by a substantial margin. Bailey is the first person to publicly announce he is eyeing the seat. Political insiders say other prominent local Republicans are also interested.

Heroux's district includes all of Attleboro except Ward 3B, which is represented by Republican Betty Poirier.

Bailey’s fundraiser will take place from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at The Café at the Mansfield Sportsplex, located at 31 Oxford Road.