About Tom

Effective government starts with listening

Tom Melville is running for State Representative in the 9th Norfolk District because he believes effective government starts with listening, decency, and a focus on the real challenges facing families every day. He's committed to being a responsive, pro-democracy legislator who works seriously on healthcare, education, housing, civil rights, and climate. Tom has spent his career solving complex problems, building consensus, and showing up when it matters, and he is ready to bring that approach to Beacon Hill.

Tom is a graduate of Boston University and Boston College Law School. He's a licensed attorney in Massachusetts.

For decades, Tom led major public service newsrooms and communications teams, guiding people through moments of crisis with clarity, kindness, and integrity. As Executive News Director at WBUR, News Director at NECN, and Communications Director at the MIT Energy Initiative, he translated complex information for the public and led teams with a strong commitment to fairness and accountability. Earlier in his life, his service in the Peace Corps taught him to identify community needs and take initiative, lessons that continue to shape his leadership. Colleagues describe him as kind, principled, and hard-working—values he's demonstrated by standing up for workers’ rights and creating supportive, accountable workplaces.

Tom is a husband, father, grandfather, and longtime community volunteer who believes leadership means staying in close conversation with the people you represent. He plans to hold regular open office hours and build strong partnerships with cities and towns to address housing affordability, strengthen public health and healthcare access, and ensure every child feels welcome and supported in our public schools. At a moment when many people feel unheard, Tom is running to bring thoughtful, steady leadership and a deep commitment to service to the 9th Norfolk District.