WATERTOWN, MA — Middlesex County Sheriff Peter Koutoujian sat down with the editorial team of The Armenian Weekly and representatives of Armenian American organizations in Watertown yesterday to share the views and values that motivated this veteran public servant to run for the 5th District Congressional seat recently vacated by Rep. Edward Markey following his successful Senate bid, reported Armenian National Committee of America-Eastern Region (ANCA-ER).

“I am proud of my Armenian heritage and of my record of accomplishments on behalf of the Armenian community and all the communities I represent. I look forward to continuing that promise of hard work and commitment if elected to Congress, and I thank the Armenian National Committee of America’s tremendously warm endorsement,” Koutoujian said.

The ANCA has been an early and vocal supporter of Koutoujian’s congressional bid, citing his years of service to the Commonwealth from prosecutor, to State Assemblyman and, now, Middlesex County Sheriff. “His leadership in Massachusetts and in the Armenian American community has been steadfast and inspiring, and he has the ANCA’s full backing in this election process and beyond,” explained ANCA National Board member Stephen Mesrobian in the ANCA’s July 3rd endorsement statement.

Following his in-depth interview with the Armenian Weekly, Koutoujian joined representatives of the ANCA, Armenian Relief Society (ARS), Armenian Revolutionary Federation (ARF), Homenetmen, Hamazkayin, and others for lunch at the Armenian-American Social Club in Watertown.

Koutoujian’s leadership on community concerns extends throughout the Massachusetts’ 5th district, which includes the towns of Belmont, Lexington, Waltham and Watertown – each with large and vibrant Armenian-American presence.

He emphasized the fact that this election will have low voter turnout and the importance of registering new voters, especially Armenian Americans, who can help him claim victory in a few months.

“We’re pleased to see Mr. Koutoujian actively seeking communication with our core Armenian organizations, including the ANCA-ER,” said ANCA-ER Executive Director Michelle Hagopian. “He has a longstanding track record of public service and loves his community, and we’re going to work hard to make sure he is elected to Congress come fall.”

Photo Captions:

Top: Peter Koutoujian joined members of Armenian organizations for lunch at the Armenian-American Social Club in Watertown on Monday, July 8, 2013.

Bottom: Middlesex County Sheriff Peter Koutoujian seen here with ANCA Eastern Region Executive Director Michelle Hagopian.