ROCHESTER — Joe Pires, a Rochester resident and member of the Old Rochester Regional School Committee, announced his candidacy for Massachusetts State Representative in the 10th Bristol district.

The seat has been held since 1992 by Rep. Bill Straus (D-Mattapoisett), who announced in March he would not seek re-election.

Pires said he’s a “moderate Republican” in a May 1 statement announcing his candidacy. 

“I believe in working across the aisle to find solutions that benefit everyone in our community,” Pires said in the statement. “I am committed to protecting and improving the wonderful place we call home."

Pires is currently serving a third term on the Old Rochester Regional School Committee, having first won a write-in campaign for a vacant seat in 2017 and re-election bids in 2020 and 2023.

Issues facing the 10th Bristol district include “the declining state of standard of living, increased taxes/fees, and the need to prioritize the needs of citizens,” a press release announcing Pires’ candidacy said.

Pires has lived in Rochester for more than 20 years, he said in a 2023 interview. He is a managing partner at Pioneer Basement and Grate Products, a basement contractor business.