Last week, House Speaker Bob DeLeo (D-Winthrop) announced significant changes to his leadership team for the session. Among those changes was the promotion of State Rep. Kathi-Anne Reinstein (D-Revere), who represents both Revere and Chelsea, to the position of Assistant Majority Whip. This role represents the fourth highest-ranking position in the state House of Representatives. Reinstein was previously serving as a Floor Division Leader.
The promotion marks a historic moment for Revere, as no representative from that city has previously reached such a high level within the legislature. City Manager Jay Ash, State Reps. Eugene O’Flaherty and Kathi Reinstein, Sen. Sal DiDomenico, Christian Calvo of Roca, and Roca Youth Stars were among those gathered at The Annual Legislative Breakfast Friday at the Winthrop Senior Center.
Reinstein expressed her enthusiasm about the advancement. “I’m just so honored to be part of the leadership team and to be one of only a few women in the history of the legislature to be at that level,” said Reinstein. “It’s humbling and I’m thankful that Speaker DeLeo has confidence in me to do this job. It’s a lot of work. Most of all, it’s a really good thing for my district and that’s what I’m really happy about.”
According to Reinstein, she took the initiative to express her interest when she learned of potential leadership changes. “I knew there was a possible opportunity above me and I did advocate for myself because I felt I have worked very hard,” she said.
Her readiness for expanded responsibilities stems partly from her intensive work on the Expanded Gaming Conference Committee last summer, an assignment that proved both demanding and stressful. Though those efforts did not yield a successful outcome, the experience prepared her for greater responsibility.
In her new role, Reinstein will engage with members, coordinate with state agencies, and focus on particular policy areas. “A lot of the smaller stuff I’ve already been doing, but now I will be doing that more often and with more responsibility,” she said. The position took effect last Friday and includes a new office, resulting in changes to her State House phone number and work address.