Garnering more than 4,000 signatures, Maryanne Lewis of Scituate, Massachusetts, announced this week her intention to enter the race for the 10th Congressional District. Lewis will run as an Independent candidate.

“It is time for a new direction for our country,” Lewis said. “As an Independent voice in Washington, I will bring a balanced, common sense approach to a political environment that is often rendered ineffective by our current system. The people of the 10th District – indeed, Americans all across the country – are facing serious challenges in almost every area of their lives. Many are out of work or in fear of losing their jobs. Millions have lost their homes or are in foreclosure. Healthcare costs are crippling small business owners and stunting the growth so desperately needed in order to kick-start the economy.”

Lewis states she is running as an Independent because she feels the traditional Democratic and Republican platforms have strayed from their roots, resulting in more harm than good for the American people. “George Washington prophetically stated in his farewell address to the nation that our country cannot sustain a two party system,” Lewis says. “And at times, I’m not even sure it’s a two party system at all. Whatever it is, it is sorely lacking in common sense.”

Lewis brings with her a strong foundation of both public and private sector experience. She is a daughter, a mother to two teenage sons, a businesswoman, wife and volunteer. She formerly served as a prosecutor and as State Representative of the Eleventh Norfolk District.

Lewis will hold a kick-off fundraiser on Thursday, Aug. 26, 7-10 p.m. at the Indian Pond Country Club in Kingston. For more information visit maryannelewiscongress.com