Evan Francis Kicks Off Campaign for Taunton City Council with Packed House and Powerful Message: “People. Forward. Together.”

Taunton, MA- On Wednesday, June 18th, Evan Francis officially launched his campaign for Taunton City Council with a packed and energetic kickoff event at the Trescott Street Gallery in Downtown Taunton. Surrounded by friends, supporters, and community leaders, Francis delivered a powerful and deeply personal speech outlining his vision for a more connected, compassionate, and forward-thinking Taunton.

“This campaign isn’t about me,” Francis told the crowd. “It’s powered by you. It’s driven by the people of Taunton who are yearning for new and diverse voices on the council. That’s why my message is simple: People. Forward. Together.”

Francis, a lifelong Tauntonian, shared his journey from growing up in the city’s Oakland neighborhood to working in state and local government, most recently as Legislative Aide to State Representative Dennis Gallagher. He paid heartfelt tribute to the late State Representative Carol Doherty, who inspired his commitment to public service and encouraged him to run.

Among the crowd were elected officials and community figures, including Register of Probate Tom Hoye, City Councilor Phil Duarte, State Representative Dennis Gallagher, and State Representative-Elect Lisa Field, all of whom offered remarks in support of Francis’s candidacy. Also in attendance were former State Senator Marc Pacheco, former Taunton Mayor Bob Nunes, City Council President Scott Martin, City Councilor David Pottier, Candidate for Taunton Mayor City Councilor Estele Borges, Raynham Selectman Joseph Pacheco, Bridgewater Town Councilors Marilee Hunt and Mark Linde along with Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson and State Representative Mark Sylvia.

The event featured local food from Michelle’s Ah-Mazing Grazing and music from Francis’s own campaign playlist.

In his speech, Francis laid out a comprehensive platform focused on fiscal responsibility, public safety, education, economic revitalization, and supporting vulnerable populations—including those facing housing insecurity or addiction. He emphasized the need for bold but balanced leadership, and for city government that works for every resident, in every neighborhood.

“If elected, I will always be an independent voice,” Francis said. “I will always think for myself. I will always listen, and I will always work for you.”

At just 22 years old, Francis acknowledged that some might see his age as a barrier—but framed it instead as an opportunity. “We need young voices at the table,” he said. “I hope I can be an example to other young people that your voice does matter, and that public service is for you too.”

Francis concluded with a call to action: “What you pour into this campaign and this movement now will hopefully have ripple effects for years to come.”

The campaign will now shift into full gear with citywide canvassing, coffee hours, and community outreach planned throughout the summer and fall.

For more information about Evan’s campaign or to get involved, visit evanfortaunton.com or email info@evanfortaunton.com.