ABOUT ME

Tara Thorn Hong is a Democrat running for Massachusetts State Representative in the 18th Middlesex District.

In 2024, Tara Hong was elected to serve as the State Representative for the 18th Middlesex District, making history as one of the youngest representatives to serve in the Massachusetts State Legislature. Since taking office, Tara has dedicated himself to being a responsive, accessible, and community-driven leader who always puts people first.

From the start of his first term, Tara has made constituent services one of his top priorities—ensuring that every phone call, email, or request for help is answered with care and urgency. Whether assisting families navigating state programs, connecting residents to local resources, or addressing urgent neighborhood issues, Tara has earned a reputation for always showing up and following through.

He believes that the role of a State Representative extends far beyond the walls of the State House—it begins and ends with the people in his district. You’ll often find Tara attending community events, visiting local schools, and meeting with small business owners, nonprofit leaders, and residents to listen, learn, and take action on their concerns.

At the Massachusetts State House, Tara has been working hard to build relationships with colleagues across the Commonwealth and advocate for policies that directly benefit the people of the 18th Middlesex District. He has supported legislation to make housing more affordable, strengthen education, and improve public health and safety. Tara’s collaborative and determined approach has allowed him to be an effective voice for his community even as a first-term representative.

“To me, being a State Representative means being present for the people I serve—whether that’s answering a call about housing, advocating for school funding, or standing alongside neighbors at community events. The work never stops, and I am proud to keep showing up.”

Tara’s story begins long before his time in office. In 2013, he, his mother, and his sister emigrated from Cambodia to Lowell, Massachusetts, with the help of his stepfather. Faced with the challenges of learning a new language and adjusting to a new life, Tara worried they would never feel part of the community. But the warmth and kindness of the people of Lowell gave his family a chance to rebuild.

“The City of Lowell has become a welcoming home for us, affording us the opportunity to rebuild our lives.”

Tara began his education at Stoklosa Middle School in the Acre neighborhood, then went on to Lowell High School, Middlesex Community College, and UMass Lowell, where he earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science with a minor in Criminal Justice. His experiences in Lowell’s schools and neighborhoods shaped his belief in the power of education and inclusion.

“I am a firm believer that state and local governments should implement diverse programs to foster inclusivity and provide the necessary tools for students from all backgrounds to thrive.”

Tara’s journey in public service began during the COVID-19 pandemic, when he volunteered to deliver diapers and food to families across the city. In 2021, he joined Lowell Litter Krewe, spending most of his Saturdays cleaning neighborhoods to make the city a better place for everyone. Because of his dedication, he was invited to join the organization’s Board of Directors. Around the same time, Tara also became involved with Mill City Grows, where he continues to serve as a board member through 2025.

In addition to his nonprofit work, Tara has always believed in empowering others through civic engagement. As a former Civic Engagement Coordinator at the Cambodian Mutual Assistance Association (CMAA), he helped residents access voting information, organized community events, and worked to ensure that all voices in Lowell are heard.

“My life’s path since arriving in this country remains consistent—I am devoted to serving the community that provided me with so much. My mission is to help alleviate the challenges faced by my neighbors.”

Today, as a State Representative, Tara brings that same energy and dedication to his work every day. Young, energetic, and deeply connected to the district, Tara continues to listen, learn, and lead for the people of the 18th Middlesex District.

“I humbly ask for your vote to continue serving as your State Representative for the 18th Middlesex District. I will keep showing up, both in the community and at the State House, tirelessly advocating for positive change and strong support for our district.”