Rich Bastien proudly represents Ashburnham, Ashby, Gardner, Royalston, and Winchendon in the Massachusetts House of Representatives.  In his first term, Rich has already established himself as a fierce advocate for the people of the 2nd Worcester district, pushing to end restrictions that place undue burden on small businesses; fighting for effective, affordable, high quality public education, from pre-K through college, and working to make sure the government is doing more for the citizens of the Commonwealth, refusing to settle for the status quo.  He helped successfully push through an amendment that brought millions of local aid dollars back to cities and towns across the Commonwealth, keeping teachers in the classroom and police on the beat.

Outside of his days in the Navy, Rich has lived his whole life in Northern Worcester County, spending his childhood first in Gardner and then in Fitchburg.  Nine years ago, Rich and his wife, Lauren, purchased their first home in Gardner. Lauren teaches in the Gardner Public Schools where their son, Sean, also attends second grade.

Rich served in the United States Navy aboard the USS Blue Ridge after graduating from high school.  His time in the Navy was very formative for Rich.  While serving his country, he was able to travel the world and gain invaluable perspective on different cultures.

 

After serving in the Navy, Rich returned to Massachusetts and began work on his bachelor’s degree.  Rich understands the struggles that today's students face affording college. As he had to put himself through school, it took him several years to finish while also spending long hours supporting his family.  In 2010, Rich graduated cum laude from Fitchburg State College with a degree in History, a minor in Political Science, and a license to teach History in grades 8-12.  When his time on Beacon Hill is done, Rich hopes to return to his true passion, teaching.

A political outsider when he first ran, Rich believes his background makes him uniquely qualified to fight for the families and people in his district.  He’s lived the struggles that many of his neighbors and constituents also face.  His strong work ethic is steeped in a working class background.  Rich takes great pride in having had to work for what he has.  It is this hard work and determination that he believes is his best attribute.

As a father, husband, homeowner, educator, and former retail store manager, Rich brings together all of his life experiences to fight for the citizens of the 2nd Worcester District at the State House.